WORKSTATION DIARIES

Beyond the Title

By: Ulysses C. Ybiernas | June 27, 2016

Envy is Unnecessary Evil

It’s natural to feel a twinge of envy when others advance in their careers, especially when it’s through the recommendation of a boss, and not you. But is there really anything to envy about? A promotion is just another title attached to someone’s name. While it may signify career progression and boost one’s self-esteem, it doesn’t necessarily guarantee happiness or fulfillment. Well, let's face it, it is an added item to the resume, making it more appealing for future career advancement. But it's not worth a thought really. If such an opportunity comes my way, I’ll carefully consider it, but if it doesn’t, I won’t lose sleep over it.

Think about it, how much additional income do you really gain from a promotion compared to the added stress, pressure, and workload? In most cases here, the financial reward is pretty small, much like a consolation prize, while the added responsibilities can become extra-overwhelming. The perceived prestige of a higher position might boost pride externally, but if it leaves someone to get overloaded with added stress with less reward, especially being obliged to render extra-hours of work without an overtime pay, is not worth the game.

In the grand scheme of things, there’s little reason to dwell on such matters or feel discontent. Success should not be narrowly defined by climbing the corporate ladder or acquiring flashy titles. True success, in the strictest sense, is about living a life that values one's well-being and priorities. So why envy what others achieve if it comes with burdens that outweigh the rewards?