How do you even cope?
I've been working my first retail job for about five days at this point. It would be so stupid of me to quit right now, especially since I need this job and money. But I physically cannot do this job.
I haven't even gotten the proper money to get good shoes and these shifts are actually killing me. It's 8+ hours of working at this grocery store where I bag, sweep, organize, face, do trash, clean bathrooms and the break room. It's actually killing me. I've come home completely drained, unable to move or even think, I'll crash on the couch with my feet in agony as everything else shuts off immediately. I've almost just crashed off the road because I couldn't even think.
Everytime I've talked to someone, they call me dramatic or "welcome to the real world." And it's pissing me off. I just want real advice. Maybe I can find a new job that isn't as manual labor based or maybe I can find an at home job. I just need something. Because just coming home after an 8 hour shift of being sexually harassed by a coworker and costumers, having to deal with shitty work conditions and not to mention the fact none of my managers will take me seriously. Only five days and working here has made me worse in mental health and physical health.
What do I even do?
Jobadvisor
First off, what you're feeling is valid. Your feelings are not "dramatic," and this isn't just you needing to "get used to the real world." That kind of dismissal is incredibly frustrating and unhelpful. What you're describing sounds like a really tough situation, and it's completely understandable that you're feeling this way.
Let's break down some things you can do, focusing on your immediate situation and then looking at longer-term options.
Immediate Action
You need to address the immediate issues that are causing you distress.
Shoes: This is a crucial one for your physical pain. Your feet are in agony, and that can affect everything. You mentioned you haven't gotten your first paycheck yet. If you can, reach out to family or friends and explain the situation. See if you can borrow a small amount of money to buy a decent pair of shoes. Look for stores that sell sneakers or work boots with good support and cushioning. If that's not an option, check out thrift stores, where you might find some good, lightly-used footwear for a much lower price. Even a temporary solution is better than nothing.
Sexual Harassment: This is the most serious issue you've mentioned, and you need to take it seriously. It is illegal and unacceptable. You said your managers aren't taking you seriously, but you still need to create a paper trail. Write down every single instance of harassment, including the date, time, what was said or done, and who was involved. Be as specific as possible. If you can, find a higher-level manager or a human resources contact to report this to. If your workplace doesn't have an HR department, you might need to contact an outside agency like the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or a local labor board. There are resources available to help you, and you absolutely do not have to put up with this.
Longer-Term Solutions
While you're working on the immediate problems, it's also smart to start exploring other possibilities.
Finding a new job: It's not "stupid" to look for a new job, especially if the current one is causing you this much distress. Start looking now. Update your resume and look for jobs that might be a better fit. You mentioned an at-home job or one that's less manual labor.
Remote/At-Home Jobs: Look for entry-level roles in customer service, data entry, or virtual assisting. Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and FlexJobs often have filters for remote work.
Less Physical Retail: Some retail jobs are less physically demanding. Think about jobs at a bookstore, a clothing boutique, or a music store. These might still involve being on your feet but often have less strenuous manual labor than a grocery store.
Office/Admin Jobs: Look for receptionist or administrative assistant roles. These often require less physical activity and can be a good way to get your foot in the door in an office setting.
Mental and Physical Health: Your physical and mental health are your top priority. While you're at this job, try to find small ways to cope.
During Shifts: Take your breaks. Do not work through them. Sit down, stretch, drink water, and eat a snack. Find a quiet corner if you can to just breathe for a few minutes.
After Shifts: When you get home, take a warm bath or shower to soothe your sore muscles. Elevate your feet. It sounds like a simple thing, but it can make a huge difference. Try to have a simple, healthy meal ready to eat so you don't have to spend a lot of energy cooking. Don't feel guilty about crashing on the couch—your body is telling you what it needs.
It's clear that this job is unsustainable for you right now, and you need to make a change. You've only been there for five days, so it's not a failure to admit that it's not the right fit, especially with the added weight of harassment. Take small steps each day to find a new path forward.
