Atlas Syndrome: How Carrying Excessive Workload May Limit a Career

Ever feel at work like you’re carrying the weight of the universe on your shoulders? Do you keep saying “yes” when new assignments are added to your already-overflowing plate? If this sounds familiar, you might be suffering from what is called “Atlas Syndrome.”

In Greek mythology, Atlas was a character condemned to the eternal burden of carrying the universe on his shoulders. In the workplace, Atlas Syndrome occurs when we silently accept more and more work, often believing it’s a badge of honor to bear the heaviest load. Instead of being rewarded, we can become overwhelmed, less productive - even overlooked for advancement.

Over time, resentment may set in. “Doesn’t my boss know how much load I’m already carrying?” “Do they even care?” Some even quit perfectly good jobs rather than address the issue.

Here’s the truth. Your boss may not be aware you are at capacity for legitimate reasons. For example, they may also be overloaded and do not have the bandwidth to track each team member’s workload. Additionally, some workers are more productive than others, resulting in workload being distributed unevenly. Though it may not feel like it at the time, your boss may be indicating confidence in your ability to get things done by relying on you again and again.

Here’s another truth. Some of your coworkers may spread their work to fill their day, no matter how light their load. In response, managers may feel forced to load workers up until they push back. It’s not ideal, but it is reality in many shops.

In my book Passcode, I share strategies to help you shed the weight, focus on what matters, and become the kind of professional who leads, not just carries.

Workers who communicate honestly about their capacity and protect their ability to deliver quality work earn respect. Speaking up is not a weakness; it’s a sign of professionalism and self-awareness. Practice honest, timely check-ins about your workload, and don’t be afraid to set boundaries.

Bottom line: it’s your responsibility to manage your own workload. But studies by Gallup show that up to 85% of employees hesitate to communicate when they’re at capacity, leading to disengagement, stress, and even health problems. If you don’t raise your hand, your boss may keep piling it on.

Want your career to soar? Be a part of the other 15%, set down the sky and pick up your real potential.

Contributing Source. 

- Gallup (2021). State of the Global Workplace.

A career executive and consultant to more than 50 industries, Jim Kessler is the author of Passcode: Deciphering the Unwritten Codes of Career Advancement, now available on Amazon. More information about the book, its author and tips for career advancement can be found by further exploring this site.