“We Barely Sleep”: South African Woman Shares Her Eye-Opening Experience of Working in The US

• A South African nurse living in America recorded herself explaining why she works double shifts three to four times a week
• The honest video revealed the real reason behind Americans working multiple jobs compared to South Africans
• Her candid explanation about working culture differences between the two countries sparked debate among viewers about money, addiction, and lifestyle choices

A South African nurse working in America has gone viral after sharing a brutally honest video about why people in the US work so much more than those back home.

Content creator @fortunemabina, who moved from South Africa to the United States and works as a nurse, posted the eye-opening video on 28 August with the caption:

"This is the simplest way I could explain why we work like crazy people."

In the video, she lies down with her eyes closed as she records herself speaking directly to the camera. She explains how she works double shifts three or four times a week, even though nobody is forcing her to do it. The nurse goes on to break down the difference between working culture in America versus South Africa, pointing out that most South Africans typically have just one job, which she calls "comfortability."

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According to her explanation, the difference comes down to opportunities and mindset. She describes money as being "addictive" and explains that when you know you can afford something you want by working extra hours in a week, you'll take that opportunity. The nurse admits she doesn't like doing double shifts, but the idea of earning money to get what she wants keeps bringing her back.

South Africans relate to money addiction

The honest video struck a chord with many viewers who shared their own experiences with working multiple jobs.

@nomvelo_nyaba admitted:

"I take doubles even if there's no need."

@nombuso_xaba offered a different perspective:

"It's not 'comfortability'. We can't have two jobs because they are not available."

@boitumelo related completely:

"And I am out here looking for a second job because money is addictive."

@kholofelo_kholofelo suggested:

"I think it's because we don't get paid enough for the long hours we work, hence we work so much. If we were paid enough we wouldn't feel the need to work too much."

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@sam_ndlovuu kept it simple:

"It's a choice. Period!"

@icameheretolive questioned:

"Is money addictive or is the cost of living high? Why is it that you have to work more just to live a normal life?"

@refilwe_mpanza concluded:

"This is a good thing about America."

Multiple jobs trend grows across America

According to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, the trend of workers holding multiple jobs has become increasingly common in America's tight labour market.

Research shows that around 5.2% of employed people work more than one job, with multiple jobholders working an average of 35 hours at their main job and an additional 13.5 hours per week at other jobs. The study reveals that overemployment can provide benefits like increased income and new skills, but also comes with risks including burnout and work-life balance challenges.

Watch the TikTok clip below:

Other stories of healthcare workers

• Briefly News recently reported on a healthcare worker who turned a children's hospital ward into pure magic with his singing and dancing, but what the young patients did in response melted hearts.
• A South African nurse at George Mukhari Hospital celebrated with joyful dancing during her shift, but the real reason behind her happiness had everyone talking about immigration policies.
• One determined woman from Limpopo shared an emotional video celebrating a major milestone in her nursing career, and what she finally received after years of hard work inspired many.

Source: Briefly News