#4: Beyond the 9-to-5: Embracing Honesty in Our Work Lives

Let’s be honest — most of us are not honest at work. We lie, play into the politics, and try to be the good employee we think our boss expects us to be. What if, however, the workday is stripped of its glossy veneer, where candid conversations replace the scripted dialogues of professional life. In this alternate universe, the veil of career aspirations is lifted, revealing a more pragmatic and, perhaps, relatable view of work. Let's take a walk through this refreshingly honest landscape and explore what it would look like if we were all upfront about the work we do.

In this candid world, meetings become a different ball game. Gone are the days of nodding enthusiastically to every point made. Instead, participants openly admit, "I'm here because it's mandatory, but honestly, my mind is on the report due in two hours." This honesty could transform meetings from routine time-fillers into efficient, purpose-driven discussions.

In this honest work paradigm, it's crucial to acknowledge that for many, work has become the central pillar of their existence, often overshadowing other aspects of life. It's like a garden where the work tree grows so large that it blocks the sunlight from reaching other plants – our hobbies, passions, and personal pursuits. We've reached a point where the boundaries between work and personal life are increasingly blurred, leading to a scenario where work doesn't just occupy our time but consumes our identity. This new culture of candor invites us to reclaim our personal time, to nurture the diverse interests that make us who we are beyond our job titles. It's about redistributing the sunlight in our garden, ensuring that while work remains a significant tree, it doesn't hinder the growth of other plants that bring joy, fulfillment, and a sense of personal identity. We need to pivot back to living OUR lives, cherishing moments that are ours alone and not defined by our professional roles. This shift isn't just beneficial; it's necessary for cultivating a well-rounded, fulfilling life where work is a part of our identity, not the entirety of it.

For some, climbing the corporate ladder is a thrilling game of strategy and skill. I get it. Humans are built to try and overcome challenges. But in our honest world, many would openly admit, "I'm just here for the paycheck." This frank admission isn't about lack of ambition; it's a reflection of diverse motivations in the workforce. Some find fulfillment in their roles, while others view their job as a means to support their real passions outside of work. Climbing the corporate ladder in the traditional sense is like scaling a mountain whose peak is shrouded in clouds of prestige and power. In our honest world, many view their professional journey more like a trek through a scenic trail – it’s not about reaching the highest summit, but about the experiences and sustenance along the path.

Success, in this unfiltered environment, gets a new definition. It’s no longer just about promotions and accolades but also about work-life balance, personal happiness, and financial stability. Employees proudly say, "I work to live, not live to work," and that’s perfectly acceptable.

Imagine a culture where honesty about work motivations is not only accepted but embraced. It's a place where the pressure to feign unwavering dedication is lifted, leading to a more relaxed and possibly more productive environment. Transparency becomes the norm, leading to better alignment of roles with personal and professional goals.

In this honest world, employers recognize and respect the varied motivations of their employees. They understand that not everyone is vying for the corner office. This recognition leads to a more tailored approach to employee engagement, with a focus on creating value for both the company and the individual, regardless of their professional aspirations.

In this landscape of workplace honesty, the role of Human Resources undergoes a transformation as well. The often-criticized 'HR doublespeak' – the tendency to cloak straightforward messages in unnecessarily complex jargon – becomes a thing of the past. HR departments now communicate in clear, direct language, mirroring the candor of the workforce. This shift not only enhances transparency but also builds trust. Employees no longer have to read between the lines to understand policies or feedback. This straightforward approach by HR could lead to more meaningful interactions, clearer understanding of policies and expectations, and a general sense of authenticity in employer-employee relations. It might be hard for Karen from HR to let go of the old ways but I have faith.

If we were all honest about the work we do, the professional world would look vastly different. It would be a place where honesty about our motivations is the norm, not the exception. This transparency could foster a more inclusive and understanding work environment, where the pursuit of personal and professional goals, whatever they may be, is respected and supported. Ultimately, it's about recognizing that our relationship with work is as unique as we are, and there's nothing wrong with that.