Rocked to sleep
?
Blog by
Bart Monster
In recent years it was often more, more, more… Due to all the (global) circumstances, we are forced into a different perspective: we need to be more careful with what we have and realize more strongly that things can’t stay the way they were. We can’t afford to nod off; there is a serious call on our sense of responsibility and entrepreneurship. But of course, that doesn’t apply to you.
We only want to change when we are impacted
For years, we have known that something needs to be done about our consumption and use of products. And for years, not much has happened. Until things get critical, until it’s legally required, or until it hits us financially. For example, we’ve been talking for years about the transition to sustainable energy, but the reduction in gas extraction in Groningen and the war in Ukraine mean we now suddenly have to speed things up. Unfortunately, it’s not that easy. Besides generating sustainable energy, the distribution network also needs to be adjusted. This requires permits, which people can object to. And now that we’re being hit in the wallet, we complain en masse, hold out our hands, and ask for compensation.
Spoiled and rocked to sleep?
Over the years, we’ve been spoiled and lulled into complacency. Cheap gas, cheap vacations, and cheap stuff from the Far East. Little by little we grew used to the luxury, and without actively choosing it, we’ve become dependent on countries/regimes that, in hindsight, we’re not happy about. And that’s where the parallel with our work lies.
And that's where the parallel lies with work
Sometimes employees stay in the same position at a company for years, a bit spoiled AND a bit lulled to sleep. They assume it’s comfortable, without being aware of their dependency and vulnerability. That’s not good for the employer, but certainly not for the employee either. Who is responsible for periodically checking whether that’s the case, the employer or the employee? And once it’s recognized, who should take the initiative to change things? As an employee, I’d like to take the initiative myself. But if I’ve already been lulled to sleep, I won’t see it myself and will need help. So it’s a shared interest for both employer and employee.
Consider it a wake up call
Right now, just like with natural gas, there is a shortage of staff. You might think, ‘there’s plenty of work, no worries.’ Yes, there is indeed plenty of work, but how likely is it that robotization, automation, or open AI will cause the company or your job to change?
We often hear from people who have been forced to change jobs: ‘I should have done this much sooner.’ This is not a plea to switch jobs. But it is a call to action, to take initiative and check whether you’ve maybe secretly been lulled to sleep too. Consider it a wake up call…
Also read colleague Mariijke’s blog: Changing motivations create opportunities!
Bart Monster
Director MEPD
At MEPD, I’ve found an environment where the added value for our clients and participants is even more tangible, and that’s one of the many reasons why I truly enjoy going to work!
