The Vocational Shrink – The Origin of  The Ten Levels of WorkPlace Disillusionment

It was during a four year period (when I was 26 through 30 years old) that I witnessed the people and characteristics which I have included in The Ten Levels of Workplace Disillusionment. While the identification and classification of the behaviors had a coworker and me rolling on the floor more than a few times, we soon realized that we were dealing with some very serious issues for both workers and employers. After more than twenty years of experience in the employee recognition and motivation business, I revisited the Ten Levels, added my further insights and experiences, and wrote this book. Click here to read The Ten Levels. [10 Levels PDF]

I, by no means, set out to paint a picture of all working people ultimately withering away in a downward spiral of occupational hopelessness. I do, however, want to shine a light on the devastating, and potentially permanent damage that can be done to both employees, and the companies they work for, if the causes and effects of the ten levels are not dealt with effectively.

The more that management and staff can open the lines of communication regarding the causes and effects of workplace frustration, the sooner they can both begin to make the subtle changes necessary to reduce stress, increase cooperation, and greatly improve productivity and satisfaction. Isn’t that the winning combination we are all looking for?

The Ten Levels of Workplace Disillusionment introduces a sequence of easy-to-recognize behavior patterns that can be used to identify reactive survival tactics that employees fall into unknowingly. Once you can distinguish the effect, you can then match it up with a cause. When both the cause and effect are open on the table, you can operate on the underlying problem, bandage up the wounds, and begin to enjoy the fruits of healing. Click here to read about author, John R. Schaefer. [Bio PDF]

Life is full of situations that, while serious in themselves, can be better comprehended and openly addressed, if looked at from the humorous side. A lighthearted, open minded, positive attitude makes evaluation and growth a much more pleasant, fun, and rewarding activity.

So here’s to the understanding of our occupational oddities. Remember, if your job makes you kind of crazy, you’re normal!