Say What? (Why Your Job’s Making You Passive)

Political correctness is repressive, especially if you have a job.

That sounds harsh, doesn’t it?

I know you meant well by getting an education and career to provide for yourself (and family).

But you never understood the true cost of this decision, did you?

Let’s put it in perspective.

Other than having to spend time in a less than ideal environment, with people you don’t care about and getting paid what someone else thinks you’re worth, what else have you forfeited?

Self-expression.

The very nature of having a job means that you’re approval-seeking, and constantly stifling your natural responses to get a check.

The modern workplace is not designed for a man to succeed.

Try crossing the line with an innocuous reference. The PC watchdogs will swoop down, and you’ll be in HR before you can say termination.

Further, Jobs are a hotbed of passive-aggressive behavior. If you’re a straight-up guy, that prides himself on being honest and direct, you’re in shark-infested waters. There’s little truth coming your way from coworkers currying favor with the boss, or when career advancement is involved.

Never let your guard down, even when dealing with a nice coworker. They might need an ally, or scapegoat, and you fit the bill. Whatever their motive, rest assured, it’s all about them.

Here are a few ways to avoid the perilous fate of the typical worker.

1. Have clear goals. Know exactly what you want. Don’t stop to smell the flowers. You’re not free, so don’t get too comfortable. Get what you came for (money!) and leave, preferably to start your own business.

2. Keep your true feelings to yourself. Stay professional and sociable. But don’t think you’ve made friends. You’re in the trenches with two-faced backstabbers.

3. Save money. (Unless your goal is to work for others, which means you’ll be dependent.) To go your own way, you’ll need cash. Therefore, you must save. Money means freedom, and the more you have, the freer you are.

4. Learn to read people. Study their character, not simply the surface. Don’t assess people based on your likes and dislikes. That’s limited. Get out of your head and stop intellectualizing. Survival is about being focused and street smart, your success depends on it.

We’re living in an era of rigid social controls. True self-expression is frowned upon, and raw ambition prohibited. You must fit-in to get approval and access to resources, which is emasculating.

But you can make a difference. Go against the grain and buck the system.

Later,

Gary

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