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HOW TO AVOID THE SEVEN DEADLY WORKPLACE SINS

BY: Regina Galang Reyes, Philippine Daily Inquirer, January 5, 2005

REPENTANCE is something we should do at work, if Bob Rosner, Alan Halcrow and John Lavin, authors of “Gray Matters: Use Ours, Use Yours” (John Wiley & Sons, Inc. 2003), had their way. They have identified “seven deadly workplace sins” that people at work are prone to commit in these uncertain times. They consider these sins “deadly” because if people in organizations commit them, the organization – and consequently our jobs – will surely become extinct.

The New Year is as good a time as any to examine whether we have “sinned” at work and what we can do to avoid committing these sins again this year. So what are these deadly workplace sins? And are we guilty of committing them? See if you can relate to any of the following:

SIN 1: EXHAUSTION

Your first reaction would probably be, “Aren’t we supposed to be awarded a huge medal of loyalty for working ourselves to death?” But getting exhausted could lead to serious consequences at work. Continuous exhaustion can lead to burnout at work and at home. Ironically, working too much lessens productivity rather than increase it. Say “No” one thousand times to tasks that don’t add value to your objectives at work and home and – simply don’t stop doing them.

SIN 2: ANGER

Rosner et al. write, “Anger is an acid that corrodes the foundation of any workplace.” When you are exhausted, your triggering point for anger becomes very low. It may not take much kindle in your anger. Count from one to ten-especially when you feel anger mounting – before reacting to an annoying situation.

SIN 3: SURRENDER

There are days when all odds seem to be against us. No one can blame us if we throw in the towel and give up. But, if you surrender, you will certainly be defeated. If you analyze situations at work and at home, there are circumstances we can control, and there are circumstances that we cannot control. The trick is, in the words of Rosner et al., how do we “leverage our influences and make a difference?” Write one thousand times on paper towels, “Never give up!”

SIN 4: OBSOLESCENCE

Rosner et al. write, “Our future is at risk unless we invest in our skills.” These words are so relevant in these times when no one can be assured of security of employment. The author’s advice us to keep our skills current, meaning, hone up on skills needed by the times. It is only by doing so that we stay on top of our field. Sharpen one “saw” or skill a month for continuous improvement.

SIN 5: INCOMPETENCE

Rosner et al. advise “Your career depends on you being competent in the right context.” So, keeping your skills current means acquiring the skills you need for your career and home. It’s time for you to start attending the necessary training programs and courses.

SIN 6: WITHDRAWAL

When you start walking through your office and home like a zombie, the, you are retreating into your comfort cocoon, which can affect your work and family. Rosner et al. write, “When one team member withdraws, the whole team suffers.” Take a needle and prick your arm a thousand times until you regain your senses. We have got to “stay focused on our mission and connected to others.”

SIN 7: DYSFUNCTION

When does a functional person become dysfunctional? In one way or another, we all are dysfunctional and we “bring our dysfunction to work every day.” So how do we get through a normal day without going berserk? “We should learn to manage our neuroses – and those of our colleagues,” says Rosner et al. This is what teamwork is all about, living with our quirks and learning how to work with others’ quirks. Write a zillion times, “T.E.A.M.” meaning, together each achieves more.
When you do this examination of your work conscience, remember that the important thing is recognizing we have fallen to temptation, and get up from there every time.