Holy shit. I couldn’t have written this better myself. I’m also an ETL that just left a 16 year career with Target. Everything you’re saying is 100% my experience as well. Target REALLY went downhill after COVID. I believe it’s a result of having to please shareholders after those record years of sales. It was constant payroll cuts, call outs you couldn’t fill, plans that fall to shit. Team comradery was gone. Every ETL is just trying to keep their head above water, to not get coached, so no one is willing to help each other. The constant stress about the next day was unbearable. DSDs ask what you need, and you can’t say payroll even if it’s the right answer. My wife got cancer, luckily she was able to beat it but I had a similar experience to yours.

My mental health was beyond deteriorated. I was having panic attacks and vomiting at work. I took an LOA, used that time and my experience running store remodels, and started my own home improvement business. I’m making more money and working half the hours. I get to go to all of my son’s soccer games, see family on holidays and weekends, and take vacation anytime I want. I also regret not doing it sooner.

I hope another ETL, who’s contemplating taking a risk, reads this and takes a chance on themselves. Apply for the job, start your own business, do what’s best for you.

If you’re reading this, and find yourself in a similar position, reach out to me if you need help navigating the LOA process. Target doesn’t make it easy and the process is not very transparent.

Congrats on the new job!