Self-demand at work is a common phenomenon in today's society. It is often perceived as a positive characteristic, associated with motivation, performance and excellence. However, when self-demand becomes dysfunctional, it can have negative consequences on the mental health and well-being of individuals. In this article, we will explore the causes of dysfunctional self-demand at work and how it can affect people in their work and personal lives.
External Pressure and Expectations Social
One of the main causes of dysfunctional self-demand at work is external pressures and social expectations. In today's society, there is constant pressure to achieve success, be productive and stand out in the workplace. This pressure can come from family, friends, colleagues, bosses, or even society in general. High performance expectations can lead people to set unattainable standards for themselves, which in turn creates a cycle of excessive self-demand.
Perfectionism and Fear of Failure
Other A common cause of dysfunctional self-demand at work is perfectionism and fear of failure. Those people who have perfectionistic tendencies tend to set extremely high goals and be very critical of themselves when they do not achieve them. The fear of failure can be paralyzing and lead to a constant search for perfection, which in turn generates high levels of self-demand and self-judgment.
Self-esteem and External Validation
Self-esteem plays a fundamental role in self-demand at work. People who have low self-esteem tend to over-rely on external validation to feel valuable or competent. This can lead them to overexert themselves at work, constantly trying to prove their worth through their performance. The need for external validation can fuel dysfunctional self-demand, since they never feel good enough, regardless of their achievements.
Competitive Work Environment and Organizational Culture
The work environment in the What a person finds themselves in can also influence their level of self-demand. In highly competitive environments or with an organizational culture that rewards hard work and personal sacrifice, employees are more likely to push themselves excessively. The pressure to stand out from others and constant competition can lead to situations of chronic stress and anxiety, thus fueling dysfunctional self-demand.
Unrealistic Expectations and Comparative Self-Evaluation
Constant comparison with others and the adoption of unrealistic expectations can also be causes of dysfunctional self-demand at work. In the age of social media and hyperconnectivity, it is easy to fall into the trap of comparing our achievements and performance with that of others. This comparative self-evaluation can generate feelings of inadequacy and trigger a constant need for improvement and perfection, thus fueling excessive self-demand.
Low Frustration Tolerance and Limiting Beliefs
People with low frustration tolerance are often more likely to develop patterns of dysfunctional self-demand at work. The inability to deal with difficult situations or failure can lead to a constant search for perfection and high levels of self-demand. In addition, limiting beliefs, such as the thought of "there is never enough" or "I must always do more," can reinforce excessive self-demands and make it difficult to develop a more compassionate attitude toward oneself.
Impact of Dysfunctional Self-Demand on Work and Mental Health
Dysfunctional self-demand at work can have significant effects on the mental health and well-being of individuals. The constant pressure to meet high standards can lead to high levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional exhaustion. In addition, excessive self-demand can affect people's self-esteem and self-confidence, creating a negative cycle of self-criticism and perfectionism.
Physical Health Problems and Work Burnout
In addition to the effects In mental health, dysfunctional self-demand at work can also have repercussions on people's physical health. Chronic stress and constant pressure can increase the risk of developing health problems such as heart disease, digestive disorders or sleep disorders. Burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low personal fulfillment, can also be a consequence of excessive self-demand at work.
Strategies to Cope with Dysfunctional Self-Demand at Work
Fortunately, there are strategies that people can use to address dysfunctional self-demand at work and cultivate a healthier relationship with themselves. Some of these strategies include:
Practicing Self-Acceptance and Self-Compassion
Recognizing and accepting our imperfections and limitations is essential to counteract dysfunctional self-demand. Practicing self-compassion involves treating ourselves with kindness and understanding, rather than judging ourselves in a critical and demanding way. Cultivating an attitude of self-compassion can help reduce the pressure to achieve perfection and promote greater tolerance for our own failures and mistakes.
Set Clear Boundaries and Prioritize Self-Care
Establishing clear boundaries at work and in your personal life is essential to prevent excessive self-demand. Learning to say "no" when necessary, delegating tasks, and prioritizing self-care are effective strategies for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Spending time on activities that bring us pleasure and well-being, such as exercise, meditation or time with loved ones, can help reduce stress and improve mental health.
Modify Limiting Beliefs and Practice Self-Reliance Positive Thinking
Identifying and questioning the limiting beliefs that support dysfunctional self-demand is an important step to changing negative thinking patterns. Practicing positive thinking and focusing on personal strengths and achievements can help counteract the tendency toward self-criticism and perfectionism. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude and appreciation for oneself can foster self-esteem and self-confidence.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dysfunctional self-demand at work can have several causes, ranging from external pressures and social expectations to perfectionism, fear of failure and low self-esteem. The effects of excessive self-demand on the mental health and well-being of individuals are significant, and can generate stress, anxiety, emotional exhaustion and physical health problems.
However, it is possible to confront dysfunctional self-demand. through strategies such as self-acceptance, self-compassion, establishing clear limits and modifying limiting beliefs. Cultivating a more compassionate and understanding attitude toward yourself can help reduce the pressure to achieve perfection and promote a healthy work-life balance.