Am I replaceable at work?
Today, we are sharing this blog space with Alexia Eller, LMSW. Alexia is a mental health therapist, an EMDR therapist, and a mental health advocate. She has a diverse work history and is sharing today about how the way you view your job can have an impact on your mental health. Join us in learning more about the idea that your replaceability in the workplace can connect with your mental health professionally and personally.
For those who take pride in their work or career path, being viewed as “irreplaceable” may be a goal to show that you are the best of the best in your field. American Psychological Association suggests that in today’s environment, there are added pressures with new management, close surveillance of production, and fewer benefits creating an increase in tension for the workers and exacerbating or increasing the presence of workplace anxiety.
I have to agree, that it is commendable when people dedicate themselves to their passions in the workplace and create alternative options that might be more beneficial or promote overall happiness in their department. But when the day winds down and you are to go home and face your home, what do you think about or want to gain personally for yourself?
Let’s explore the concept of being “irreplaceable” at work:
No one is like you. Out of all the people in the world, we are all different and unique in our own ways. We have passions, quirks, strengths, and weaknesses that make us, us. If we focus on our self-development as a whole and how it can benefit our work along with our endgame goal in our industry, it would outline our priorities professionally and personally.
It is always important to be adaptable and flexible in learning new techniques and learning how best to grow in your position and if you have the ability to branch out with a supervisor’s permission to cater your passions into your role in a cool way, that is always a plus. However, do not overstep boundaries on a regular basis to prove you are always willing and flexible especially if you are not being compensated for the changes (1).
American Psychological Association researchers suggest that if work stressors do not alleviate after changes or alterations, you are allowed to search for something else within your job market. Just remember that, if you have tried various options to assist in the solution to create a more well-rounded work environment and nothing is working, it’s okay to branch out and take a chance on yourself. A healthy work environment is a part of mental health and anxiety management.
If all you take from this is that you are an ever-growing and developing human within your field, whether you are a welder, culinary artist, or program developer for a company; you can be great in your environment, but remember that seasons can come and go (2). Your season at your job is important, but don’t lose sight of other responsibilities or priorities that are important to you.
By Alexia Eller, LMSW
If you are interested in learning more about workplace stress, boundaries, and personal growth that is congruent with your professional growth, we are ready to help. Whether online therapy, in person at our Arlington, TX base therapy office, or through group therapy, we have options to meet your needs. Connect with a member of our team today.
