This is about that self talk we all have with ourselves in our own head. We repeat scenarios and beliefs about our work, career, and self identity. These beliefs are parameters around which we act or behave in society and more to the point here, our work environment. IntentionalWorkplace.com lists some workplace narratives that many of us use:
- Unless I work very hard, I won’t succeed.
- You can’t really trust anyone in the workplace.
- Mine is a thankless job.
- I’m just doing this job to pay my bills.
- Nice (guys) finish last.
- There’s no fairness in the workplace.
- It’s all bull crap – everyone lies.
- Only people who play the game get promoted.
- My co-workers are incompetent, lazy, etc.
- My boss is incompetent (a jerk, a liar, etc)
- My company doesn’t care about its employees.
- I’ll never get ahead in this job.
Some of these are good for self-growth and career enhancing, while others are clearly going to put us on a path to self destruction and hardships. Do your own self inventory of self talk or workplace narratives to learn why you use them and test them further. By testing them and exploring your beliefs in these self talk pronouncements, you will hopefully learn to discard those that hold you back and block your chances for career success.
“Sadly, fear is still one of the biggest drivers for success in today’s workplace.” --
Louise Altman, Intentional Communication Consultants
