November 14, 2024

Contentment in the Workplace: Lazy or Just Satisfied?



Interesting topic on Mix.FM this morning, they talked about being content in the workplace. Is it a good thing, or is it just being lazy?

For me, I truly believe there’s nothing wrong with being content with my current position, salary, and benefits. However, my top boss doesn’t seem to feel the same way. I can sense that they view my contentment as laziness or a lack of motivation. 

I don’t understand why it’s seen as so wrong. It’s not like I’m underperforming; I complete all my projects well. But I still feel sidelined because I don’t want to take on a higher position.  Just because I don’t want to take on a higher position doesn’t mean I’m lazy—it means I know what works for me at this moment in my life.

A listener on the show this morning said she is in her “contentment era,” and I resonate with that. I’m content in my work life right now. But I still have goals outside of work that I want to achieve, just at my own pace. There’s a sense of balance in knowing what’s enough professionally while still having personal goals that excite me.

So, here’s the question I think we should be asking: Is it really wrong to be content? Maybe, just maybe, contentment isn’t the enemy of success—it’s part of it.

Picture of my not-so-successful attempt at making focaccia!
See, I haven’t stopped learning and growing—I’ve just shifted my focus to new areas.
Story of this failed focaccia will have to wait for another day.