Sorry, I hardly ever use forums so this is my first time writing and I might be all over the place. I'm 42 and work at a small hotel in Khon Kaen as an evening receptionist. This month is the peak season so it's been way heavier than usual, like really intense.

Last night my boss suddenly asked me to switch to the night shift to cover the main front desk without telling me in advance. Around 10pm I was fixing an emergency in a guest room (using the spare key and writing the guest's name on a tag) — took about 20 minutes — then I had to rush back to handle a big check-in. Three groups arrived at once, which I normally can deal with.

But my boss seemed to expect me to handle everything alone: answer calls, coordinate with the kitchen to sort out snacks, and also train two new staff who were still confused about the system. I didn't get any break — like two straight hours with not even a quick sip of coffee.

I'm tired. Help. I can take responsibility, but I really wish someone would actually help. It's so quiet. I don't know, am I overthinking or should I just tell my boss straight up? When I mentioned I was tired, I said it lightly, and my boss just said, "It'll pass." I wanted to cry so bad hahaha.

Sometimes I think I should be tougher because I'm getting older, but other times I want them to see how hard I'm trying. I'm scared they'll think I'm weak. Going in circles here, totally confused.

Anyone else been through this? How should I say it so it actually works but without ruining work relationships? What should I do?

P.S. I'll update later.