I totally agree, it does really suck to realize and accept it. I grew so much with Starbucks, and for a time it supported me as I came into my own and figured out who I was during my early 20s.

As I’m getting older though, this job just doesn’t feel fun anymore and I feel like I’ve grown past needing this job for my identity, as I did in the past. Also, as an adult this job just isn’t financially sustainable and I’m way overly drained from it to the point that I can’t handle 2 jobs to make ends meet. As you said, for a time I really loved working here and will always cherish my early days here before everything felt so stressful and serious, but as you said accepting what Starbucks actually is can be difficult. It can be great, but also incredibly draining, tired, and too much sometimes. Being honest with myself and realizing what this job has become, and that I can’t no longer do this anymore, was crucial. Solidarity and all the best to you ✨