[CarpetBench]

> In part because of this, I find it really difficult to deal with people I work with complaining about pay/bonuses/hours etc,

I get what you're saying and that you likely don't mean any malice, but just in case: It isn't a competition to see who can have the worst working conditions.

That kind of rhetoric is the same that those with capital use to suppress wages/benefits because it's obviously profitable in the long run. It's a manipulation: Many people want to be seen as industrious, and telling someone they're entitled because they want an extra vacation day a year is a powerful manipulation that works much of the time.

Don't be manipulated. The company is almost assuredly making a huge return on your employment. Don't be afraid to assert your right to some of it.

[lethargic_meat]

The best approach is to consider yourself a company. Your time is your commodity, your goal is to make profit. Don't give for free your commodity, understand well how is valued in the current market and how to increase that value.

Never go to ask for a bonus/raise because you "deserve" it, but because your skills are valued x in the current job market.