The Psychological Impact of Working Without a Fixed Salary in Restaurants

Web Editor

May 8, 2025

a man in an apron holding a plate with a piece of paper on it in front of a group of people, Bourgeo

Introduction

In various occupations such as waiters or gas station attendants, employees often lack a fixed salary and their earnings depend on tips from customers. This uncertainty in income can lead to both physical and mental health issues, especially when faced with a challenging economic climate.

The Effects of Not Having a Fixed Salary

Marisol Vásquez highlights several effects on workers without a fixed salary, including economic struggles due to daily expenses.

  • Sleep cycle disruption: This can lead to depression or anxiety, and may also cause deficiencies in attention, concentration, and memory as worries focus on economic matters.
  • Physical health issues: Family members supporting multiple children, housing, schooling, and daily expenses may experience organic effects.
  • Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of time and resources for meal preparation can result in low-quality food consumption, potentially causing other health issues.

Roxana Linazasoro adds that workers without fixed salaries may develop chronic stress-related disorders, which exhibit symptoms like fatigue affecting sleep, anxiety, and depression.

  • Psychological impact: Emotional irritability, apathy, and low mood can lead to depression and significant mental distress.

Many employees without fixed salaries are also dissatisfied with their jobs, constantly seeking secure income within an organization.

According to Computrabajo’s Employment Indicator, approximately 44% of people in the country are dissatisfied with their jobs, while only 34% are satisfied, and 21% show indifference.

Marisol Vásquez also notes that a fixed salary does not eliminate psychosocial risks related to wages for employees.

Roxana Linazasoro concurs that a completely fixed salary does not guarantee the absence of psychosocial effects.

Both experts emphasize that a harmonious work environment, built by employers, supervisors, and coworkers with respect and balance between work and life, is crucial to mitigate potential psychosocial risks.

Key Questions and Answers

  • What are the effects of not having a fixed salary? Workers may experience sleep cycle disruptions, physical health issues, nutritional deficiencies, chronic stress-related disorders, and job dissatisfaction.
  • How does job dissatisfaction affect employees? Many sought-after secure income within organizations, and approximately 44% of people in the country are dissatisfied with their jobs.
  • Can a fixed salary eliminate psychosocial risks? No, a fixed salary does not guarantee the absence of psychosocial risks. A harmonious work environment is essential to mitigate potential issues.