"They are depleted by accepting additional responsibilities, over delivering, taking on emotional labour, supplying the Colin the Caterpillar birthday cake, and generally being the person to whom everyone complacently says: What would we do without you?! It's a familiar story in the domestic sphere, where women shoulder disproportionate responsibilities plus a bonus mental load."
"In large part this is due to difficulties reconciling the domestic burden and professional obligations. Other factors also amp up the pressure to over perform professionally: women's extra hours are rewarded less than men's, according to a 2024 study; presenteeism means women who work more efficiently (completing their work in fewer hours) are judged negatively for it; and they lack the status shield men enjoy, meaning they're more likely to bear the brunt of negative emotions and perceptions."
Many people experience deep exhaustion, sleeplessness, headaches, irritability, emotional flatness and a constant sense of being permanently 'on'. Competence hangover arises when people, particularly women, accept extra responsibilities, overdeliver, take on emotional labour, and become the default problem-solvers for others. Disproportionate domestic duties and the added mental load intensify workplace strain and complicate balancing home and professional obligations. Structural workplace dynamics amplify pressure: extra hours by women are rewarded less, efficiency can be penalized through presenteeism, and lack of status protection increases exposure to negative emotions and perceptions. The appeal of competence can mask overwork until burnout emerges.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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