Dealing
with Envy and Blame in Today’s Workplace
Elaine Beyer/Human Resource Staffing
Current economic circumstances do not prompt us to feel satisfaction
in the workplace. We become anxious about our continued employment
or about having enough money to survive a downturn. We compare
ourselves to our coworkers and speculate whether they are
playing the political game better than we are, whether we
are doing enough, and whether we will be able to avoid a layoff.
We find ourselves blaming; blaming management and the government,
and projecting our dissatisfactions outward to those we work
with and those we live with each and every day.
Increasing levels of fear and anger may cause us to lash out
at those we believe are more securely placed, gossip about
others, and hold on tightly to current assignments and routines.
Blaming may make us speak inappropriately and get us labeled
as uncooperative. Perceptions of others that we envy or blame
can disrupt our efforts to communicate with management and
coworkers.
Many of us are caught between fearing the worst and hoping
for the best. Anger at others may help us feel better temporarily,
but in the long run does not help construct our future. Holding
tightly to what we have and following our usual routines may
cause us to miss opportunities and appear less flexible to
our employers. Envy and blame focus on others and take precious
time away from our own concerns. They may also cause us to
act contrary to our values.
Realistically, these are tough times and companies may need
to make deep changes in the way work is being accomplished.
It is difficult to deal with unpleasant emotions such as fear
and anger, and at the same time make plans. However, envy
and blame can also be useful motivators. If we are envious
of a coworker’s academic preparedness, for example,
we might make plans to upgrade our own skills. If we are blaming
external factors over which we have no control, there is little
opportunity to take inventory of our current state.
Staying on our own path provides an internal compass, making
it easier to respond to situations as they arise. If, in other
times, you would not be an envious or blaming person, consider
the effect of acting against your values now. Begin to control
your own direction by making plans; today, this week, this
year & the next five years. Share information with others
rather than restricting it. Continue to communicate, even
with those you envy or blame.
Your ideas and lessons come from many people – and you
also have a lot of life to share.
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cannot be accomplished without the expressed consent of Human
Resource Staffing.
Don Schmitz
is a popular speaker and writer on all aspects of HR and CEO
of Human Resource Staffing. Don holds graduate degrees in
Education, Administration and Human Development.
Contact Don@HumanResourceStaffingInc.com
952 854 6040
