On the surface, they are the epitome of success: always on time, impeccably dressed, and surpassing every target. Admirable work habits have long been aspired to and championed in the professional realm. However, for some individuals, these very habits are not a sign of an unshakable work ethic, but rather manifestations of high-functioning anxiety. It may seem paradoxical, but success does not immunise one against the challenges of anxiety. Instead, it can intertwine with day-to-day functions in subtle yet insidious ways.
The Perfectionist Pursuit
A hallmark of high-functioning anxiety is the relentless drive for perfection. Individuals may set incredibly high standards for themselves, not merely due to a commitment to excellence, but as a method to allay anxiety. This stringent self-expectation often extends to minute details, leaving no report unchecked or email unpolished. While onlookers marvel at their dedication, the perfectionist may be wrestling with fear of criticism or failure, each task completed a temporary salve for their internal unease.
Over-Preparation as a Shield
For those with high-functioning anxiety, over-preparation is the shield against unexpected challenges. They meticulously plan their day, run through presentations dozens of times, and rehearse conversations. While these habits convey a sense of being thorough or well-prepared, it might in fact be a coping strategy to mitigate the intense worry about perceived or potential mishaps that could tarnish their performance.
The Need for Constant Busy-ness
There's a certain glamorisation of 'busyness' in modern culture, often synonymous with productivity and purpose. However, for individuals struggling with high-functioning anxiety, the constant flurry of activity serves a different purpose. It's a distraction—a means to avoid negative thoughts or the discomfort of stillness that anxiety can exacerbate. Rarely does the world see the hidden costs: burnout, stress, and an inability to relax, even during times of rest.
Risk Aversion and Missed Opportunities
Risk and uncertainty are part and parcel of any career trajectory. Nonetheless, individuals with high-functioning anxiety might exhibit an aversion to risk that goes beyond cautious wisdom. They may sidestep promising opportunities due to an inflated sense of potential danger or a foreboding fear of the unknown, thus compromising personal growth and advancement.
People-Pleasing Tendencies
High-functioning anxiety can also surface as people-pleasing behaviour. A propensity to say 'yes' to every request, the reluctance to assert boundaries, and an excessive concern about others' perceptions can be indicative of underlying anxiety. Ostensibly, these individuals may seem the quintessential team players, yet internally they grapple with the pressure to maintain everyone's approval at the cost of their well-being.
Compulsive Checking and List-Making
While organisation is key to a successful career, those with high-functioning anxiety may take it to an extreme with compulsive checking and list-making. Lists become a crutch to manage the anxiety about oversight or forgetting tasks, and compulsively checking work can provide temporary relief from the fear of making mistakes. What seems like diligence might, in reality, be a strain of anxiety manifesting as over-vigilance.
Understanding the Underlying Struggles
Recognising these signs in oneself or others is not a call for alarm, but rather an invitation for empathy and self-reflection. High-functioning anxiety is often undetectable because it masquerades as desirable work ethics. Yet, by acknowledging the struggle beyond the glint of achievement, there is an opportunity for supportive interventions. Strategies such as mindfulness, boundary setting, and therapy can provide relief and tools for managing anxiety.
Promoting a Holistic Approach to Success
The modern workplace and our views on productivity must evolve to acknowledge that true success encompasses emotional well-being alongside professional accomplishments. It is essential to cultivate environments where people feel empowered to discuss mental health without fear of stigma. Supporting employees in achieving a balance between distinguished performance and mental health is not only humane but beneficial for the sustainability of thriving organisations.
In the landscape of success, we must learn to look beyond appearances, recognising that high-functioning anxiety is often hidden in plain sight. Only through increased awareness and conversation can we destigmatise this experience and provide individuals with the support they need to not only succeed but to thrive holistically. It is time to redefine what it means to be successful by valuing not just the fruits of our labour but the well-being of the gardener tending to them.