Happiness in the workplace often depends on the overall environment. The workplace can be unpredictable and sometimes unstable, and at times there can even be conflicts between employees. After all, we’re all human. But how much does environment play a role in the workplace?

According to the Harvard Business Review, women and young people are the most unhappy at work. Burnout and stress are particularly high for these groups, and they don’t seem to be decreasing. Imagine the experience of being a child in a public school without art classes, gym, or recess—lacking the outlets for decompression. The Harvard Business Review also reports that about 50% of employees within the workforce are “quiet quitting,” choosing not to go above and beyond at work, while 18% are quitting loudly.

Companies are still learning that employees need purpose, flexibility, and support as people who work 8 hours a day to help the business grow. When I worked in retail, I was constantly burned out, was not motivated, and received no support from my employer. I felt like a number and not a person to the company. As a woman, I felt unsafe during certain customer interactions and was not taken seriously. My work affected my mental and physical health. I felt constant loneliness and resorted to eating out every night. I dreaded going to sleep as it meant having to work the next morning.

Now, I’m fortunate to work in a place that has allowed me to feel motivated about my future again. I’m surrounded by staff and leaders who support each other. It makes all the difference when employees are treated not as numbers, but as human beings.

I believe companies need to give adults breaks and creative spaces, helping them feel appreciated and supported. For millennials and younger generations, it’s not just about what they do for a living, but how they live.

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The Future of Connection for Women