DEAR HARRIETTE: I work in a high-stress environment with an unreasonable boss. She often makes us work through lunch, sometimes without even having time to go to the bathroom. It’s crazy, but when we are in production, she expects all hands on deck -- no matter what. The other day, I worked a good 10 hours without even having a bathroom break. When I said something to my boss, she looked at me like I was ungrateful.
I really do like the work that we do, but I can’t keep up the pace. I don’t want to quit or report my boss. I just want to have a better work environment. What can I do? -- Way Too Much
DEAR WAY TOO MUCH: This may be the time to speak to your co-workers to see how they are doing. You are likely not the only one feeling stressed-out and unable to keep up. Since you like the work, perhaps together you can speak to your boss and attempt to reason with her. Make a written list of grievances that you all sign. Present this to her in person, and ask her to talk to you about current conditions and what you recommend to make the office environment more manageable. She will likely balk, but if all of you speak up and let her know you cannot continue at this pace, she may relent.
If she doesn’t work with you, you need to go above her head. Not allowing you to take a bathroom break or eat for 10 hours is dangerous.