Playing a Role

During work hours, I find myself taking on a role. I become Wesley, the IT Specialist for Freight Management Systems. This illustrates a crucial point: my job does not define my identity.

I am not my occupation or my title.

This distinction is vital to keep our ego in check. In our society, the ego often seeks validation through achievements, roles, and accolades. It pushes us to exclaim:

“Look at what I can achieve!”

“See how skilled I am!”

“I resolved this issue!”

“I am the expert here!”

“I am John, the Manager (with all the weight that title holds)!”

Ultimately, these titles are just labels. When we learn to identify our ego and separate it from these labels, we create space—space to experience work and its associated pressures in a new light.

Work Pressure and Ego

Pressure at work is a prevalent issue. Deadlines, expectations, difficult coworkers, and an overwhelming workload can feel—let's say—'overbearing.'

There's a reason for the rising number of work-related burnouts; mental health waiting lists are longer than ever.

The way we perceive this pressure is largely influenced by our mindset and the ego's grip. The ego leads us to believe we must achieve perfection and meet every expectation. And failure? That’s simply not an option.

Where does this stress and dissatisfaction stem from?

Example: Sarah and the Unrealistic Deadline

Consider Sarah (a fictional character for illustration). She is a marketing manager facing a crucial project with a tight deadline.

Her ego convinces her that her professional worth hinges on the success of this project. What would others think if she fails? Consequently, she begins to work excessive hours, experiences poor sleep, and lives in a constant state of stress.

Upon discovering this article, she realizes she has intertwined her work with her self-worth. She reaches out to Wesley, and they arrange a conversation.

After their discussion, she decides to redefine her approach. She establishes clear boundaries for her work hours and learns to ask for help when necessary (we can’t do everything alone).

By setting her ego aside, recognizing her role, and adopting a healthier work attitude, she finds herself performing better and feeling less stressed.

Rediscovering Enjoyment in Work

I can relate to this experience, and I know I’m not alone. For much of my life, I engaged in work I didn’t find fulfilling. In a rush for immediate income, I hastily signed up with multiple employment agencies.

When asked about my preferences, my limited qualifications left me with few choices. It wasn't until I started working directly for a logistics provider that I began to see positive change. I embraced internal opportunities and progressed to the role of IT Specialist.

Is this my passion? Not at all. It’s more about enduring discomfort (or is this just the reality?). My true interests lie elsewhere (hint: this is part of it!), but I don’t dislike my role in the company.

Many individuals truly dislike their jobs for various reasons. Perhaps they've slipped into autopilot mode, or they’re overwhelmed with deadlines, like our fictional Sarah. Conflicts with colleagues or a lack of fulfillment may also contribute.

The ego exacerbates this by convincing us we’re trapped with no alternatives.

But what if we could tame that ego and embrace change? It might be time to learn new skills, explore different opportunities, or simply shift our perspective on our current work.

Example: Mark and the Challenging Colleague

Let’s consider another fictional example: Mark, a software developer. He frequently clashes with a colleague who persistently critiques his work. Frustrating, right?

His ego feels under attack, making his workplace seem hostile.

After reading a thought-provoking blog, he decides to reassess the situation. He realizes that his colleague’s criticism reflects more about them than about him.

By choosing not to take it personally and remaining open to feedback, he significantly improves his work relationships, reducing his stress levels. This shift in mindset can be transformative.

The ego is often the root of considerable stress.

By recognizing the ego for what it is and letting go of attachments, we can find the inner peace we've been seeking. While work pressure will always exist, those who awaken to this reality realize they have the power to choose how to respond to it. Remember, what you’re doing now isn’t necessarily what you have to continue doing.

If this resonates with you or if you found this valuable, consider showing support—buy me a coffee. It's a more affordable alternative to therapy!