Isn't it ironic that pay, perks, and benefits all cost your company at the bottom line, but authentic recognition, especially when it's most unexpected, costs very little and gives the most impressive return on investment?
Chip ConleyRead
I know that when I attached my sense of identity a little too closely to my work that I might be distracting myself from feelings of unworthiness. It wasn't the number of hours I worked or how bloodshot my eyes were that defined the difference. It was something internal.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Our self-worth should not be solely tied to our work and productivity.
In this quote, Chip Conley reflects on the dangers of linking one's identity too closely with professional achievements. He highlights that feelings of unworthiness can arise from this attachment, suggesting that true self-worth comes from a deeper, internal recognition rather than external markers like hours worked or visible effort.
Themes
IdentityWorkWorthinessSelf-WorthInternal
In practice
Example use cases
Using this quote in a workshop about work-life balance.
More from Chip Conley
All quotes →The intersection of psychology and business is typically seen as being as congested, stressful, and emotionally barren as a peak commute traffic day on the L.A. freeways. But, thankfully, we live in an era in which neuroscientists are teaching us about the malleability of our brain and the emotionally contagious nature of our workplaces.
Chip ConleyRead
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