'That is what optional means': Foreman surprised when a single employee refuses to work unpaid overtime

Remy Millisky • Writer and Editor

Jun 8, 2024 3:00 PM EDT

Standing up to those in power is a risky move! One electrical worker knows that all too well after they found themself in the unenviable position of being the one speaking truth to power.

This person was only able to talk to their boss openly because their workplace has a union. U/algy888 was an electrical worker, and on this project, they got a "super fun" opportunity to install lights on the stairs in movie theaters. First of all, thank you for your service: someone's got to put in those lights so we don't trip down the staircase during our mid-movie bathroom breaks. Second of all, this project was a bit rushed, as this worker explained in a post to r/MaliciousCompliance. Like many industries, this one has a have a hurry-up-and-wait approach to their work.

When this person found out that they were going to have to pull 10-hour days for a while, they weren't upset. They actually welcomed the change, since they needed an infusion of cash in their life. But they didn't feel that way for long, after their boss explained what was really going down.

After that, read about the theme park visitor who was utterly stunned when they were asked to provide a tip… for their self-service meal.