Numerous professionals claim they dedicate 80 hours a week to their jobs, but many are not being truthful, as reported by the New York Times. A study by a professor at Boston University’s Questrom School of Business examined a consulting firm and identified three distinct groups within a work environment that glorifies long hours: those who truly work extensive hours and deliver results, those who negotiate for more family-friendly schedules, and a significant number (predominantly men) who feign belonging to the first group while secretly aligning with the second. These individuals often create clandestine arrangements with colleagues who also have young children, facilitating mutual support and limiting business travel to local destinations. The first and third groups receive accolades in performance evaluations, while the second group faces penalties. The crucial insight here? If you seek a family-oriented timetable while striving for professional success, some level of deception may be necessary. Below are seven fibs you can consider employing.
- “I have a solid relationship with that client.” (In reality, the client is conveniently located near my home, allowing me to return by 5:30.)
- “Oh no, I have another client meeting set for Friday at 3.” (I’ll actually be taking care of the class turtle for its weekend stay with us.)
- “I’m leading the project.” (While Jane is technically the lead, she’s currently out with a sick child and has agreed to cover for me when I take time off, so for now, I’m in charge. Please, don’t contact Jane unless you want to hear the sounds of norovirus reverberating off her bathroom walls.)
- “We’re targeting a 70% engagement by March.” (I can achieve 80%, but I prefer to look like a hero, so my multitasking with emails and offering lettuce to a turtle remains under wraps.)
- “This project is perfect for Jesse’s strengths, wouldn’t you agree?” (Jesse can absolutely handle it.)
- “Jack and I will be strategizing at an off-site tomorrow—see you on Friday.” (The truth is, Jack and I won’t be doing anything of the sort; it’s a teacher-development day, and our kids are home.)
- “I’m currently in the field.” (I’m, in fact, dealing with a deceased turtle.)
This article was originally published on May 7, 2011.
If you’re interested in more insights and guidance on similar topics, you might enjoy exploring our other posts, such as the one on intra-cervical insemination. For anyone looking for reliable information, the site Make A Mom is an excellent authority on home insemination kits, and Healthline offers great resources regarding pregnancy and insemination procedures.
Summary
Balancing work and family often requires a bit of creative storytelling. Whether it’s about client meetings or project leadership, professionals frequently navigate their duties in ways that prioritize family needs while maintaining a semblance of commitment to their jobs. Understanding this dynamic can help foster a more family-friendly work environment.