Known as @brielleybelly123 on TikTok, Brielle shared her raw emotions about her first day in a video that has since gained significant attention. In her video, the overlay text reads, “QOTD (question of the day): in a 9-5 how do you have time for your life?” Accompanied by the caption, “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,” her video struck a chord with many who understand the struggle of balancing work and life.
A Mixed Reaction from Viewers
As her video circulated, Brielle received an outpouring of support from people who could relate to her experience. Many in the comments agreed that the traditional 40-hour work week is outdated, with one user writing, “The 40-hour work week is beyond outdated and your feelings are totally valid.” Another chimed in, “You’re not alone. It’s insane how legit your entire day is gone. This is why we need 4-day work weeks.” A third person added, “It’s so repetitive and depressing, I feel you, girl.”
Others shared their personal experiences and reassured her that she would adjust with time. “This is exactly how I felt when I was 22 after I graduated college,” wrote one commenter. “I’m 28 now. You will adjust. Also, having a job you are passionate about helps.”
However, not everyone was sympathetic. Some commenters responded more critically, with one writing, “Aww, welcome to adulthood.” Another remarked, “I guess I was brought up in a different generation. That is life.” One user described their own routine, saying, “I work 4 am to 7 pm or longer. Still make dinner, run, and gym.”
Struggling with the 9-5 Lifestyle
In her video, Brielle tearfully explained her difficulties with adjusting to a 9-5 job, specifically the demands of commuting. She noted that her job required her to work in-person, which involved a lengthy commute into the city. “If I was able to 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,” she shared. The commute left her with little time to do anything else besides shower, eat dinner, and sleep.
Brielle clarified that her frustration wasn’t with her job itself but with the 9-5 lifestyle, especially given the amount of time it took just to get to and from work. “Like 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 added.
Calling for Change
Following the video’s viral success, Brielle spoke to The Independent, explaining that her experience highlights the need for societal 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 said, adding that she hopes more companies consider adopting models like those in other countries where shorter work weeks are becoming more common.
Facing New Challenges: Losing Her Job
In a surprising turn of events, Brielle later revealed in another video that she had been let go from her job, just months after her initial viral post. She expressed her shock and fear, saying, “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…?!”
Brielle went on to explain her disappointment: “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 for which I moved to New York City.” She added, “It’s so disappointing. It makes you feel like you’re not good enough, and I know that I am.”
Despite her setback, Brielle remained hopeful, noting that her boss had complimented her hard work, calling her one of the smartest people he had worked with and assuring her she would land on her feet. Brielle shared her frustration at having done everything “right” to secure her career, including internships, freelancing, and building a portfolio. “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. I did things for free. I have done everything I possibly could have, and it’s still not enough.”
A Positive Turn: Finding a New Job
Fortunately, Brielle’s story did not end there. After experiencing the highs and lows of post-college employment, she eventually found a new job. She shared this update with her followers, receiving messages of encouragement and support from those who had been following her journey.
Reflecting on the 9-5 Lifestyle Debate
Brielle’s story has become emblematic of the broader conversation about work-life balance, commuting, and the demands of a traditional work schedule. Her initial struggles, compounded by the shock of job loss, resonated with young professionals and seasoned workers alike. As more companies begin to reevaluate traditional work schedules, Brielle’s experience sheds light on a perspective many young professionals share—the desire for a balanced life that accommodates both career aspirations and personal well-being.
In sharing her story, Brielle has sparked a broader dialogue about the necessity of the 40-hour work week and the possibility of adopting more flexible approaches. For many, her journey is a relatable and powerful reminder of the challenges of entering the workforce and the resilience required to overcome them.
