Have you ever wondered why, despite working long hours and putting in the effort, your financial situation doesn’t seem to reflect your hard work? Are you stuck in a rut, doing all the right things at work, but still struggling to break through to the next level in your career and finances? If this sounds like you, you’re not alone. As a Chief of Staff for the past eight years, I’ve witnessed firsthand the workplace habits that are silently draining employees of their wealth and career potential. These habits might be so ingrained in your routine that you don’t even realize they’re holding you back.
In this blog, I’ll outline some of the most common work habits that are costing employees big money—habits that can negatively impact not only your career trajectory but your overall financial well-being. If you’re looking to break free from this cycle, keep reading. Let’s dive into these habits, and more importantly, how you can change them.
1. Failure to Negotiate for Higher Salaries or Promotions
Picture this: You’ve been with your company for years, consistently delivering outstanding results and always going the extra mile. You’re a top performer, but when it comes to negotiating your salary or asking for a promotion, you hesitate. Why? Maybe you feel uncomfortable discussing money, or fear coming off as demanding. But here’s the hard truth: avoiding these conversations could be costing you thousands of dollars over your career.
I made this mistake early in my career. I felt grateful for the job I had, so I shied away from negotiating, fearing it might jeopardize my position. What I didn’t realize then was that by not negotiating, I was leaving money on the table—money that could have helped me build a stronger financial future.
Negotiation isn’t about confrontation. It’s about advocating for your worth and securing the financial rewards you deserve. Employers expect you to negotiate, and when you do so professionally—armed with research and an understanding of your value—you’ll set yourself up for higher earnings and long-term success. Don’t wait; start negotiating today.
2. Getting Caught Up in Workplace Drama
We’ve all been there—caught in the middle of office gossip, politics, and unnecessary drama. It can feel good to engage in these conversations, but let me tell you: workplace drama is a time-suck and productivity killer. It can drain your energy, damage relationships, and ultimately derail your career.
In my early years, I got caught up in the whirlwind of drama. I wasted so much time and mental energy trying to fix conflicts that, honestly, weren’t even mine to resolve. The reality is that the people involved in drama often aren’t around long enough to matter. Focus on staying productive, and steer clear of the negativity. Open communication and conflict resolution are your best tools to maintain professional relationships and safeguard your career.
3. Skipping Lunch Breaks
It’s tempting to work through lunch, thinking it’ll make you more productive. But believe me, skipping lunch is a fast track to burnout. In my earlier years, I was guilty of skipping breaks to power through tasks, thinking I was being efficient. But by the afternoon, I found myself sluggish, unproductive, and mentally drained.
Taking a lunch break is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Studies show that taking regular breaks improves focus, creativity, and reduces stress. When you take time away from your desk, you’re actually boosting your performance. So set boundaries with your colleagues and make lunch a non-negotiable part of your daily routine. Your body and mind will thank you.
4. Neglecting Professional Development
The workplace is constantly evolving, and if you’re not growing with it, you’re falling behind. I used to focus solely on the immediate tasks at hand and ignored opportunities for professional development. I thought I didn’t have the time or resources to invest in my growth, but I quickly realized that neglecting this area was limiting my career opportunities and confidence.
Make a commitment to lifelong learning. Seek out professional development opportunities, whether through online courses, workshops, or mentorship. Don’t just rely on formal education—surround yourself with people you admire and learn by doing. Continuous learning is an investment that will pay off exponentially in the long run.
5. Being Available After Hours
In today’s connected world, the line between work and personal life is increasingly blurred. Many people feel pressured to be available around the clock. But constantly working outside of regular hours is a fast way to burn out. I fell into this trap early in my career, trying to prove myself by working overtime. But over time, this took a toll on my mental health, relationships, and overall well-being.
The solution is simple: set clear boundaries. When you’re at work, focus on work. When you’re off, disconnect and prioritize your personal life. Protect your time outside of work, and your productivity and well-being will improve.
6. Equating Self-Worth with Professional Success
Many of us tie our self-worth to our professional accomplishments. We believe that climbing the corporate ladder and achieving success at work will make us feel fulfilled. But when you base your self-worth solely on your career, you risk burnout and dissatisfaction.
True fulfillment comes from having a well-rounded life. Your career is important, but it’s not the only thing that defines you. Pursue hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and focus on your personal growth. Achieving a work-life balance will not only improve your mental health but will also set you up for long-term success.
Conclusion
Your work habits play a pivotal role in your career and financial success. By recognizing and correcting the habits that are holding you back—such as failing to negotiate, getting caught up in drama, skipping breaks, neglecting professional development, overworking, and equating self-worth with professional success—you can unlock your full potential. It’s never too late to make a change. Start today, and watch both your career and personal life flourish.
Thank you for reading, and if you found value in this article, please share it with someone who could benefit. Don’t forget to check out my other videos for more insights on boosting productivity and success in both your career and life.