A young woman found herself in tears after completing her first shift at a traditional 9-5 job, capturing the hearts of viewers and sparking an online discussion about the challenges of entering the workforce. Starting that first post-college job is a big transition that brings a mix of emotions, from excitement about beginning a career to anxiety over the unknown. For Brielle, a recent graduate, her first day at work was an overwhelming experience.
Going by the username @brielleybelly123 on TikTok, Brielle posted an emotional video sharing her frustrations with her new job, and it quickly went viral. In the video, she included the text: “QOTD (question of the day): in a 9-5, how do you have time for your life?” Along with this, she captioned the video, “I’m also getting sick, leave me alone. I’m emotional, OK. I feel 12 and I’m scared of not having time to live.”
Mixed Reactions from Viewers
As Brielle’s video circulated, many people related to her experience and expressed their support. One commenter wrote, “The 40-hour work week is beyond outdated, and your feelings are totally valid.” Another added, “You’re not alone. It’s insane how your entire day is gone. This is why we need 4-day work weeks.” A third agreed, saying, “It’s so repetitive and depressing. I feel you, girl.”
Other viewers, especially young professionals, shared similar experiences, with one saying, “This is exactly how I felt when I was 22 after I graduated. I’m 28 now. You will adjust. Also, having a job you’re passionate about helps.” This supportive feedback seemed to validate the frustration Brielle expressed with the 9-5 lifestyle.
However, some commenters had a different take, responding with less sympathy. One wrote, “Aww, welcome to adulthood,” while another said, “I guess I was brought up in a different generation. That is life.” Another person mentioned their own intense schedule, saying, “I work 4 am to 7 pm or longer. Still make dinner, run, and go to the gym.”
Adjusting to the 9-5 Grind
In her video, Brielle explained the challenges of adjusting to her new 9-5 role, specifically mentioning her frustration with commuting. Since her job required her to be in-person, she had to travel into the city daily, which she described as taking “f***ing forever.” She immediately dismissed the idea of moving closer to her workplace, as it was financially out of reach.
@thebearnews women is upset over working a 9 to 5 job. #work #women #college #9to5 #genz #foryou ♬ Very Sad – Enchan
Brielle shared her frustration, saying, “If I could walk to work, it wouldn’t be an issue. I get on the train at 7:30 and don’t get home until 6:15 at the earliest.” This lengthy commute left her with little time for anything outside of work. She explained that her daily routine now consisted of just enough time to shower, eat dinner, and go to sleep before starting the cycle again the next day.
Through tears, Brielle clarified that her issue wasn’t with the job itself but with the 9-5 lifestyle it demanded. “If it was remote, you get off at five, and you’re home, and everything is fine. But I’m not home—it takes me so long to get home,” she shared.
Calling for Change
As her video gained traction, Brielle was approached by The Independent, where she shared her thoughts on why she believes this work structure needs to change. “I want to be able to talk for this next generation and explain that a 40-hour work week plus commute is not necessary for productivity,” she explained. Brielle hopes that more companies will consider alternative work structures, similar to those in other countries, where shorter work weeks are becoming the norm.
An Unexpected Setback: Losing Her Job
In an unexpected twist, Brielle later posted an update revealing that she had been let go from her job just months after her first viral video. In the caption, she wrote, “Can someone tell me I’m going to be OK!!!! Feels like the world is ending. I need a job immediately. I am feeling so lost right now, like I moved for this…?!”
Expressing her disappointment, Brielle said, “I’m not going to sit here and cry, but I got laid off from my first post-grad job—the one that took me five months to find, and I moved to New York City for.” She continued, sharing how this experience shook her confidence. “It’s so disappointing. It makes you feel like you’re not good enough, and I know that I am.”
Despite the setback, she remained determined, sharing that her former boss had praised her hard work, calling her one of the smartest people he’d worked with and encouraging her that she would bounce back. Brielle explained that she felt she had done everything right to prepare for her career. “I have a degree—I’ve done everything I’m supposed to do: I did two internships, I built a portfolio, I worked freelance out of school because I was building my portfolio. I did things for free. I have done everything I possibly could have, and it’s still not enough.”
Finding a Silver Lining: Starting a New Job
Thankfully, Brielle’s story didn’t end there. She later shared an update with her followers, announcing that she had secured a new job. The news brought relief to her supporters, many of whom had followed her journey and offered words of encouragement.
Reflecting on the 9-5 Debate
Brielle’s story has become emblematic of a larger discussion surrounding work-life balance, commuting, and the demands of a standard 9-5 job. For many young professionals, her experience highlights the challenges of adapting to traditional work expectations in a world where flexibility and balance are increasingly valued.
As more companies consider restructuring the workweek, Brielle’s journey serves as a reminder of the unique struggles new graduates face in today’s job market. Her initial struggles, compounded by the unexpected job loss, resonate with many who seek a balance between professional and personal life. In sharing her story, Brielle has brought attention to a significant issue facing her generation, and her resilience continues to inspire others facing similar challenges.
Through her experiences, Brielle has sparked an important dialogue, reflecting the aspirations and concerns of young professionals who are seeking more from their careers than just financial security.
