One of the most powerful things is when I learn a word that perfectly describes something I’m going through but couldn’t put words to.
One of those words is Resenteeism.
Originally coincide by Rota Cloud, resenteeism is the frustration and anger at your job…but too trapped to leave. It’s the annoyance at having to go to work, but no motivation to change it.
Sound familiar? 😉
I was interviewed in a recent Women’s Health article about why there has been a sharp rise in resenteeism.
Here is what I said:
“The rise in resenteeism is a result of the Great Resignation experienced during the pandemic, with many feeling “trapped without a way out.”
As Taylor explains, ‘There’s also a greater expectation placed on work by Millennials and Gen Z’s, who comprise the majority of the workforce, who desire more than a pay check: they want purpose, meaning, and belonging. Most employers don’t know how to provide this, so employees become dissatisfied at best and resentful at worst.
Because this is happening within the context of a softening market, layoffs, and a recession, people are clinging to the security of their job they feel disengaged from, which compounds the resentment. It’s like being in a bad relationship and being forced to stay for security purposes.”
If this sounds like you, I’ve put together my top tips to help you overcome resenteeism at work.
Recognize your part in this resentment. What unstated expectations, needs, or feedback have you not been addressing? What triggers and emotions do you need to work through with a coach or therapist?
Identify the exact elements of the job that are contributing to your lack of job satisfaction. Be specific.
Remember that you are not trapped and you have choices. You can give feedback to a lackluster colleague, advocate for new responsibilities, have a conversation with your manager about how you’re feeling.
Finally, we experience the world as we perceive it. Start a daily gratitude practice to focus on all the lessons, security, and growth that this job is providing you with. This is proven to boost morale, improve anxiety, and create a more positive outlook.
Worried about having a constructive conversation about resenteeism with your employer?
Consider this!
The worst thing you can do is let resentment fester. That leads to burnout, total disengagement, balls dropping, and depression. Approach your manager with your unmet needs, mismatched expectations, or challenges and come with solutions and ideas.
Collaborative language like “I’d really love to work together to find a solution because I know there’s a lot to be learned here” can put the problem in front of you rather than between you.
Are you a manager or leader who is worried about possible risks associated with resenteeism when it comes to colleagues or the broader workplace?
Resenteeism is contagious and can infect a culture causing low morale, and disengagement, which can cost your bottom-line millions. Managers and leaders can address it with curiosity and compassion with their individual reports and within the larger organization.
In one-on-ones, managers can understand what motivates their reports and how to connect that motivation to the business’ vision.
On an organizational level, leaders can remind employees of the larger vision and what they’re working towards to infuse meaning and purpose into the workforce. They can also share stories of tangible impact their teams are making to show how their work matters.
Bonus tip!
If you’re struggling with resenteeism and are ready to find true career fulfillment, I’d like to invite you to sign up for my waitlist for the Finally Fulfilled Group Coaching Program.
After incredible results and lots of interest, I’m running another round of this program in a few months!
Click here to be the first to know when registration opens.
Your Coach,
Brooke
