Employee Repeatedly Falls Asleep While Working Then This Retail Manager Talked To Him And Found Out He Was Homeless And Decides To Give Him A Lifeline

When that video of a Subway employee nodding off while working went viral, the hardships of working in retail were recounted. Under a Reddit post called 'Oh dear Monday...' a touching retail story was discovered.

The kind story was posted by LiquidMotion. He recalled his new employee, who was known to frequently fall asleep during his shifts. His habitual napping, in between and in the middle of tasks, was so obvious that his colleagues and shop customers mentioned it to his manager, LiquidMotion.

These people were so bothered by it that they guessed this employee was a drug user. They didn't consider other possible reasons for the employee to fall asleep like that.

The concerned manager decided to talk to the employee and hear him out. That's when LiquidMotion discovered the sad reason behind the employee's frequent napping.

The employee shared that he is currently homeless. He was living in his car, and the police frequently told him he wasn't allowed to do that.

To avoid trouble with the police, the employee sleeps for 1 to 2 hours, then moves to another location to continue his restless sleep until it's time for his shift. The sympathetic manager decided to help him out a little.

He moved the employee's shift to another time. He then talked to the other managers to let the employee park his car in the store's private parking lot to avoid any further trouble with the authorities.

Because of this genuine act of kindness, the employee was able to rest peacefully, and within 2 weeks, he got a room to live in. As LiquidMotion said, some people just need a little help.

In between long shifts, the homeless employee was exhausted and tried to catch any sort of rest even while working.

Clean Wal-Mart (not the actual photo)

You can read LiquidMotion's original comment here:

LiquidMotion LiquidMotion

Understanding the Impact of Homelessness

Homelessness is not just a lack of housing; it profoundly affects mental health and emotional well-being.

Research from the American Journal of Psychiatry indicates that individuals experiencing homelessness often face heightened levels of anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

For many, the stigma attached to homelessness can exacerbate feelings of isolation and hopelessness, creating a cycle that's hard to escape.

LiquidMotion

Other Reddit users found LiquidMotion's story moving, and support for him started pouring in.

Eli Duke (not the actual photo)

Another commenter shared a similar story but with a less-than-good ending.

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When employers take the initiative to support employees facing homelessness, it can significantly impact their lives, reflecting the importance of workplace empathy.

Studies show that providing resources like job training and counseling can lead to improved job performance and employee retention.

A supportive work environment not only benefits the individual but also enhances overall workplace morale.

WoenixFright

LiquidMotion recounted the hoops he had to jump through to help his employee.

Despite the good intentions, the manager had to lie to the bosses, claiming that the employee was just in between places while waiting for the apartment he was moving into.

Apparently, the other people involved were reluctant to cut the employee some slack and were considering the idea of firing him instead due to his habitual sleeping.

Until LiquidMotion reminded them that it took 2 months to find this employee. He also jogged their memory about the workload they were pushing him to finish, which wouldn't happen without this employee.

The manager went above and beyond his duties to ensure his employee had a soft place to land during a stressful time in his life.

LiquidMotion

All of Reddit was eager to commend the good-guy manager. This guy even offered a wise saying from his culture.

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The Role of Compassion in the Workplace

Compassionate leadership can transform workplace dynamics, particularly for vulnerable employees.

Research published in the Journal of Business Ethics emphasizes that leaders who demonstrate empathy and understanding foster loyalty and commitment.

This environment encourages employees to seek help when needed, knowing they won’t be judged or ostracized.

Another commenter shared their experience about a different kind of manager.

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This person showed how poor people are 'othered' in our society.

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They're also calling the kind manager a true leader.

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Employers should consider implementing programs that provide mental health support and resources for employees facing hardship.

Psychologists recommend creating employee assistance programs (EAPs) that offer confidential counseling and financial planning services.

These programs can be instrumental in helping individuals regain stability and improve their overall quality of life.

Others recalled stories from their youth, dealing with poverty, and working in retail.

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In college....

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It is hard to understand.

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Building Resilience in Adversity

Resilience is a critical factor in overcoming the challenges associated with homelessness.

Research shows that individuals who develop coping skills and a support network are more likely to transition out of homelessness successfully.

Programs that focus on skills development and community engagement can serve as vital resources for those in need.

Thank goodness.

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Relatable.

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While some opened up about having horrible and judgmental co-workers,

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Recognizing the signs of distress in employees can enable employers to intervene effectively.

Training managers to identify and respond to mental health issues can foster a more supportive workplace atmosphere.

According to studies published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, early interventions can significantly improve outcomes for struggling employees.

Here's to hoping that more managers act the way LiquidMotion did. Their story is a good reminder that everyone is going through something difficult in their lives, and it's best not to jump to conclusions too quickly.

Did your faith in humanity get restored by the manager's good deed? Would you have done the same thing for a colleague in need? Share your thoughts with us!

Understanding the Psychological Effects of Stigma

The stigma surrounding homelessness can lead to a loss of self-esteem and a sense of worthlessness.

Research from the Journal of Social Issues indicates that individuals experiencing stigma may withdraw from social interactions, further compounding feelings of loneliness.

Addressing these stigma-related issues requires a collective effort to change societal perceptions and foster inclusivity.

Psychological Analysis

This scenario highlights the critical interplay between economic hardship and mental health.

When employees face homelessness, their ability to perform at work is often compromised, impacting both their personal and professional lives.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

In summary, addressing homelessness through compassion and understanding within the workplace can lead to transformative outcomes for individuals and organizations alike.

By providing support systems and fostering a culture of empathy, employers can help break the cycle of homelessness and mental health struggles.

Ultimately, it’s about recognizing the humanity in every individual and providing the necessary resources to promote healing and growth.