In my last post, I discussed the concept of the “Work Martyr,” that person in every business and organization who makes a big deal about how much work they do and how little they get recognized. The article focused on how the Work Martyr thrives off sympathy and praise, and how their identity is wrapped up in living in a state of perpetual persecution for their unrewarded labor.
But what happens when you really ARE the person doing all the work, and you don’t want to be? Sometimes being the ‘Work Martyr’ is not all in your head. Here are 5 ways to ease your way out of Work Martyr status:
1. Stop Suffering in Silence
Expecting your hard work to be “discovered” one day by accident? Stop it…it never happens that way. We were taught that it’s not polite to toot your own horn, but the less competent horn-tooters will take credit if you do not. Learn to speak up for yourself without being obnoxious, and resist the urge to “take one for the team” every single time.
2. Contribute to a Culture of Inclusion
Many workplaces indirectly reward information hoarding and “buck-passing,” so major issues get ignored until they blow up. Don’t contribute to that mindset. Making information readily available to everyone encourages communication and shared accountability.
3. CYA
If you don’t know what it stands for, you’re not doing it! Document everything you do, and in some cases, what others don’t do.
4. Accept Imperfect Help
It’s true…nobody’s going to do the job the way you would. And that’s OK. Even if they make mistakes, their contribution will win you back a few hours of autonomy. In the long run, if you never teach anyone to replace you, you’ll be trapped by your own essential-ness. Learn to be a patient teacher and students will come!
5. Find Other Outlets for Your OCD
Yes, you are probably somewhat OCD – admit it. That’s why you strive for perfection and are impatient with the imperfections of the world around you. Use your powers for good! Work on detail-oriented projects like arts and crafts, volunteer opportunities and other constructive endeavors. And perhaps, heaven forbid, take a vacation!
No matter how great it is, work should not be your entire life. A strong work ethic is a unique gift that obviously everyone doesn’t have. You just need to find ways to channel it that will not drive you and your co-workers crazy!
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