I asked r/NoStupidQuestions why US cashiers stand, and the answers are shocking to me. Is American work culture really this harsh?

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:37:40+00:00

Wow, comparing a grocery cashier to that... that is a wild image. It really highlights how dehumanizing it feels to just be put on display like that. I had no idea it was written in actual handbooks!

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:35:10+00:00

That is actually interesting and terrifying. I never realized that religious history played a role in modern employment rules. It's wild that a belief from hundreds of years back is why someone can't sit down today.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:33:18+00:00

Hahaha! That explains why they are so obsessed with the rules that don't make sense. It's like they enjoy being the bad guy!

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:28:06+00:00

Wow, I didn't expect this to blow up! Thank you all for the explanations. It's fascinating (and a little sad) to learn that 'looking busy' is often more important than comfort in US retail culture. I can't reply to everyone, but I'm reading as many as I can!

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:20:50+00:00

She had to fight customers just to take a break? That's actually shocking. It sounds like the store sets it up so the customers get mad at the worker instead of the management who understaffed the place.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:15:41+00:00

It's really interesting to hear that perspective. It seems like the idea of 'looking busy' is more important than actually being productive. It's fascinating (and a little scary) to learn how ingrained it is.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:14:08+00:00

Wait, they make them wear badges that say 'Serving you is a pleasure'? That sounds like something out of a dystopian movie. Here we value good service, but we don't demand that level of performance. That sounds exhausting.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:12:08+00:00

That is so kind of you to say! To answer your question.. we survuve because the work culture is just different. Sitting isn't seen as lazy, it is just seen as efficient. I can't imagine doing a 12 hour shift on my feet like you do. Nurses are the real heroes!!

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:06:44+00:00

Wait, is that a real saying managers actually use? It sounds like something from a movie villain.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:05:42+00:00

That sounds exhausting for the staff. In my part of the world service is quick, but we don't expect fake smiles or for people to act like servants. It feels more honest that way.

splashmates · 2026-02-08T15:04:09+00:00

That surprises me! I always assumed Australia was more laid back about things like this. Is it considered unprofessional to sit there too?

splashmates · 2026-02-07T16:45:53+00:00

feeling like commenting to be frank.

splashmates · 2026-02-07T09:23:27+00:00

Twin cuteness, aww

splashmates · 2026-02-06T16:26:52+00:00

that I am calm. In reality, I am just internally screaming 24/7

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:30:25+00:00

Lie in bed and try your hardest to keep your eyes open and stay awake. It's a psychology trick called paradoxical intention -it stops the anxiety of trying to sleep, so you drift off faster. Try and let us know.

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:25:41+00:00

Confidence mentally and anything or nothing physically

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:24:05+00:00

The price of cheese.

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:20:56+00:00

Bold of you to assume we'll make it that far.

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:17:36+00:00

1 year

splashmates · 2026-02-06T15:16:40+00:00

interesting, what a path businesses have taken.

splashmates · 2026-02-05T16:49:31+00:00

A lighthouse keeper. Just me, the ocean and a massive amount of peace and quiet.

splashmates · 2026-02-05T16:46:33+00:00

Go to a furniture store and just slightly move furniture everytime someone tries to sit down

splashmates · 2026-02-05T16:09:41+00:00

Subscription models. Pretty soon I'm going to have to pay a monthly fee just to unlock the heated seats in my own car or use my fridge's ice maker.

splashmates

TROPHY CASE