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A Mumbai woman’s viral reel urging employees to be “slightly problematic” by setting workplace boundaries has reignited debate on burnout and work-life balance
A Mumbai woman’s viral video encouraging employees to set boundaries at work has sparked a wider conversation on burnout, overtime and mental health. (Image: Instagram/@tulipintheflow)
A Mumbai-based content creator has sparked a lively discussion online after encouraging employees to become “slightly problematic” at work, not by causing trouble, but by refusing to accept unhealthy workplace norms.
In a viral Instagram video, the woman argued that more employees need to set boundaries in office environments where overwork and constant availability are often treated as signs of dedication. Her message quickly resonated with workers who say they struggle with long hours, unpaid overtime and the pressure to remain connected even after the workday ends.
Explaining what she meant by being “problematic”, she clarified that it had nothing to do with creating conflicts or challenging colleagues unnecessarily. Instead, she referred to actions such as leaving work on time, declining unpaid overtime, taking lunch breaks without guilt, using annual leave, and refusing to respond to late-night emails.
According to her, behaviours that are sometimes viewed as difficult in certain workplaces are actually examples of healthy professional boundaries.
The creator also argued that many organisations continue functioning regardless of any single employee’s presence, making it important for workers to prioritise their well-being rather than constantly sacrificing personal time.
The video was accompanied by a caption that reinforced the message. She urged employees to stop glorifying burnout and warned against treating exhaustion as a badge of honour.
In her view, being labelled “difficult” is often the result of simply refusing to participate in toxic workplace habits.
The reel quickly gained traction, with thousands of viewers weighing in on the debate.
Many users strongly supported her perspective. One commenter summed up the message humorously, writing, “Simplified version: Tension lene ka nahi, dene ka.”
Another user agreed with the sentiment but highlighted the practical challenges of following such advice in today’s corporate environment. “It makes sense, but we just can’t do it, can we?” The person wrote, reflecting concerns shared by many employees who fear professional consequences for setting boundaries.
Several others praised the creator’s message, calling it an important reminder in an era where burnout and work-related stress are increasingly common.
“Rightly said,” one user commented, while another added, “That’s absolutely true.”
Not everyone was convinced, however. Some critics argued that there is a fine line between setting boundaries and creating unnecessary workplace friction.
One commenter cautioned, “People who create problems at work should remember that karma ka hisaab sirf office mein nahi hota. You may have to pay the price somewhere else in life.”
For many viewers, the reel served as a reminder that protecting mental health at work may sometimes require saying “no” even when workplace culture expects otherwise.
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