We always identify stress with overload – dangerous pressure building-up through those bulging in-trays and late nights. But too little pressure at work may be just as dangerous as too much. Underload (or under-demand) sets up constant stress through monotony, inertia and boredom for which we were simply not designed.
In one of the top London merchant banks, I had to counsel a young man of twenty who had won every bonus and passed every promotion exam with distinction, and had technically qualified for a board position. But he was regarded as too young, and was made to spend eighteen months looking after some less-demanding overseas business while a new post could be created for him. The change of rhythm seriously threw him. Quite unaccountably, he started performing badly on simple routine jobs. This changed his image from fast-track to mediocre, and he tended to fraternize with other mediocrities, so that his standards remained low. Last I heard, his career had never regained its momentum.
‘Underload syndrome’ has been officially recognised by industrial psychologists, and is available for formal study, counselling and training throughout the corporate world.
Want to book Motivational Speaker Carole in person?
Phone +44 (0) 20 8954 1593 or email: [email protected]
Visit Carole’s website at: www.carolespiersgroup.co.uk
