Although work can be stressful for everyone at times, there are those who treat stress as a “badge of honor,” and constantly brag about it as if they were a hero who shouldered the burden for the team.
These people suffer from what is known as “stress bragging,” and they seek to prove their importance and dedication by displaying the amount of pressure they endure. But a recent study indicated that this behavior may spoil their professional image rather than enhance it.
The study, conducted by the Terry College of Business at the University of Georgia, showed that employees who brag about high levels of stress are viewed by their colleagues as less competent and less attractive.
The study’s lead researcher, Jessica Rudel, said that this behavior is common and many people may fall into it, hoping to prove their competence, but the results are often the opposite. “Instead of admiration, they are seen as unable to manage their tasks effectively.”
What is “stress bragging”?
Stress bragging refers to the tendency of some people in the workplace to display how busy and stressed they are in the hope of gaining appreciation from colleagues and superiors.
They repeatedly mention the many tasks they perform, or the nights they spend at work, which creates an atmosphere of tension that affects their colleagues.
In an experiment in which 360 employees participated, researchers presented scenarios to colleagues returning from a work conference. The results showed that participants rated the colleague who bragged about his stress negatively compared to another who spoke positively about the experience. The nervous braggart was considered less attractive and competent, and participants were less likely to help him if he needed support.
Related Post
The study also surveyed the experiences of 218 employees in a real work environment, and found that bragging about stress promotes a work culture based on the assumption that chronic stress is normal and required, which leads to exhaustion of the entire team.
How do you manage work stress effectively?
- Be aware of the impact of your behavior: Before sharing feelings of stress, consider the impact on your colleagues. Try to rephrase your speech in a positive way.
- Find safe spaces for expression: Choose an appropriate time to express your feelings instead of talking about them in front of everyone.
- Focus on solutions rather than problems: Instead of complaining, discuss the ways you use to cope with stress.
- Set clear boundaries: Avoid competitive stress by managing your time and setting healthy boundaries for your work.
- Promote a healthy work culture: Leaders can encourage open discussion about stress by focusing on solutions.
Bragging about stress is a negative culture that is “contagious”
Returning to the study, I found that bragging about stress may be “contagious” in the work environment. In another experiment that included 187 employee pairs, researchers found that employees who work closely with colleagues who brag about their stress feel higher levels of stress and exhaustion.
Rodel concludes, “The goal is not to compete over who is the busiest or most stressed, but rather the most important thing is our ability to work efficiently and collaboratively.” By applying stress management strategies, employees can improve their professional experience and foster a positive work environment.
