Thank you so much Stavros!! Once I identified it, I knew that self-efficacy—the belief in your ability to succeed at specific tasks—was such a differentiator. There's something about knowing you can do the work that's different from being a generally confident person.
Totally hear you on drive—it's absolutely a double-edged sword, and I've been there myself. At the risk of sounding a bit 'woo woo' (lol), I think finding a connection to purpose is key. Or at least understanding why you're bending to the pressure and what you're getting out of it.
I'll use myself as an example. When I was at a point in my career when I felt like I 'had to,' I was trapped in a cycle of constantly seeking external validation. I justified the pressure, long hours, and nonstop work because I believed I needed the title, comp, or reputation to feel good about myself. But once I got clear on what I really wanted—autonomy, flexibility, control over my time, and the ability to help others—I started to prioritize those things. Now, there are days I don’t work, and I’m fine with it. Other times, I choose to work for days on end because I know it supports what I truly value. Hope that helps!
Thank you so much Stavros!! Once I identified it, I knew that self-efficacy—the belief in your ability to succeed at specific tasks—was such a differentiator. There's something about knowing you can do the work that's different from being a generally confident person.
Totally hear you on drive—it's absolutely a double-edged sword, and I've been there myself. At the risk of sounding a bit 'woo woo' (lol), I think finding a connection to purpose is key. Or at least understanding why you're bending to the pressure and what you're getting out of it.
I'll use myself as an example. When I was at a point in my career when I felt like I 'had to,' I was trapped in a cycle of constantly seeking external validation. I justified the pressure, long hours, and nonstop work because I believed I needed the title, comp, or reputation to feel good about myself. But once I got clear on what I really wanted—autonomy, flexibility, control over my time, and the ability to help others—I started to prioritize those things. Now, there are days I don’t work, and I’m fine with it. Other times, I choose to work for days on end because I know it supports what I truly value. Hope that helps!
Does this resonate with your experience?
Awesome - they're lucky to have your support!