Seeing Red?

Unmanaged stress, heavy workloads, toxic environments, and constant conflict are widely recognised as the primary causes of illness and mental breakdowns in the workplace these days. Some companies have taken to bringing in counsellors, but most staff don’t want to be seen seeking help because of the stigma around mental health. In the African diaspora, mental illness is seen as a weakness or personal failing, and it is willfully ignored until someone burns out, or finally snaps often meeting a tragic end. Some people resort to substance abuse, self-harm, violence, or “African magic” to deal with difficult workplace situations, workmates or bosses. Others just grin and bear it for the sake of a steady pay cheque, refusing to take leave or share knowledge, because they fear replacement.

My fellow Gen X’ers and millennials often treat red flags like decorations instead of warning signs. As a local comedian – Uncle Mo recently joked, we spot the red flags during job interviews but plough through anyway. Money matters when you have bills to pay and mouths to feed. In my previous life as a call centre operator, we had a “screaming room” – an actual room within the office where we could go and vent. That should have been my warning sign but, I had a young child and needed the money, so what was a little stress and soul-crushing job dissatisfaction? Screaming wasn’t a solution; it was like putting a bandage on a septic wound and hoping it will go away. I felt so much lighter when I finally got another job.

Our parents (the Silent Generation and Boomers) had the luxury of staying at one company or institution from graduation to retirement; they were more-than-adequately compensated for their loyalty and efforts, as they steadily moved up the ranks – they were happy, fulfilled and content. We (Gen X and Millennials) often stay at one job until we find a better job, but we always give it our all, often to our own detriment. I admire Gen Z, they leave the minute a job no longer serves them. They have the courage to change direction. No apologies. No long speeches. They just go. The inconvenient and uncomfortable truth we all need to face is – in the end, we’re better off walking away. If you aren’t growing in your job, you feel it draining your lifeforce and/or aren’t being paid enough for your work, no amount of “be strong”, “hang in there” or “it is what it is” will ever be enough. It’s better for you to have your exit plan ready and leave with dignity.

Here’s your out:

1. Build your confidence fund: Calculate how much you would need to put aside to survive for at least 6 months without a job, and put this money in a high-interest account, such as a money market fund. Remember, this money isn’t for emergencies; it is about buying yourself some time to pause, reset, and plan for a better future.


2. Always be prepared for the next opportunity: Do your job well, but don’t make yourself irreplaceable in a way that traps you. Share your knowledge, train others and be a team player. At the same time, invest in yourself by learning new skills and staying relevant in your industry. Document and celebrate your contributions and wins – promote yourself and showcase your skills on platforms such as LinkedIn. You never know, someone might be looking for you.


3. Carefully consider all your options: For some, an exit isn’t a jump to another job, but embracing independence in form of self-employment. This requires discipline, consistency, and a clear understanding of what the market is willing to pay for, not just what you enjoy doing. If you don’t hunt, you won’t eat – there’s no paycheck or benefits unless you close a sale.

Should you stay, or should you go? That’s up to you. Your identity and future are shaped by your decisions, not just your circumstances. So, knowing all this, make the decision that works best for you.

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What workplace red flags have you been ignoring? Sound off in the comments, or DM me – @KagoTMD on TikTok, Instagram and LinkedIn, so I can point you to the exit sign.

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