Jessica Rodell, a professor at UGA's Terry College of Business, discusses "stress bragging" in workplaces, describing it as boasting about one's stress levels as a badge of honor. She explains that stress bragging often stems from a desire to prove one's value and competence by highlighting workload and responsibilities. However, her research shows that this behavior can backfire, making individuals appear less competent and liked by colleagues.
Moreover, stress bragging tends to increase stress levels in others, contributing to a more stressed workplace culture. Rodell emphasizes that while it's acceptable to discuss stress empathetically, boasting about it can have detrimental effects on both personal and workplace well-being.
