In almost every workplace, there’s an unspoken law of balance, or imbalance, really. Roughly 25% of the people end up doing 75% of the work. You’ve seen it, you’ve felt it, and if you’re honest, you probably are one of those 25%…
The Worker Bees vs. the Window Sitters
You know the type:
The worker bees are buzzing, checking tasks off, keeping things alive and moving.
The window sitters are present but not necessarily working. They perfect the art of looking busy while scrolling on their phones or “strategizing” with an empty notebook.
It’s not always laziness, sometimes it’s lack of training, sometimes it’s lack of drive. No matter the reason, the load shifts, and the few end up carrying the many.
Why This Happens
1. Competence attracts responsibility. The more capable you prove yourself, the more lands on your desk.
2. Systems aren’t perfect. Some workplaces reward showing up over showing out.
3. Comfort zones are cozy. Some people learn to skate by, and unless someone calls it out, they’ll keep coasting.
The Double-Edged Sword
Being in the 25% is both a blessing and a curse. You gain recognition, skills, and influence, but you also risk burnout. Carrying too much of the 75%’s slack can turn you into the office mule instead of the office MVP.
That’s why balance matters. Shine in your role, yes. Prove your worth, yes. But do NOT sacrifice your sanity trying to be the whole 100%! Remember: work is a marathon, not a sprint.
The Long Game
Here’s the beautiful part, while the 75% may be content to clock in and fade into the background, the 25% are building reputations, connections, and futures. The world tends to reward those who keep things running, even if it takes time for the scales to show it.
So if you find yourself in that 25%, wear it like armor. Keep your boundaries clear, but let your excellence speak. Eventually, people notice, and the next step up often belongs to those who keep stepping up. 🤗
Yard 2 Yield! 