Is it normal to feel like a fraud for doing the minimum at work?

Many professionals experience guilt or imposter syndrome when they perceive themselves as only meeting basic expectations, especially in demanding work cultures. This feeling often stems from internal pressure to constantly overperform, even when the minimum is sufficient for the role. It's a common response to workplace environments that subtly encourage constant striving.

A recent survey indicated that over 40% of employees admit to practicing 'quiet quitting,' focusing solely on their core responsibilities without extra effort.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who feels like a fraud for doing the minimum at work?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone feel like a fraud for doing the minimum at work?

Does Everyone?

Is it weird to feel like a fraud for doing the minimum at work?

Is It Weird?

Why do I feel like a fraud for doing the minimum at work?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

I’m a lab tech – not, like, a scientist, just a tech. …

quiet quitting guilt

I worked at this retail place, part-time. …

quiet quitting guilt

I started this remote software support gig two years ago, right after I finally hung it up at the office. …

quiet quitting guilt

I don't know if this counts as a confession, but I'm a graphic designer for a local charity and I just… do what they tell me. …

quiet quitting guilt

I’m in my late sixties now, and I find myself looking back at these small decisions, these little rebellions, and wondering if they were actually bigger than I ever let myself believe. …

quiet quitting guilt

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel guilty for just doing my job?▾
Guilt for simply meeting job requirements often comes from societal or personal beliefs that equate productivity with constant striving beyond the basics. High-achieving individuals are particularly prone to this feeling, even when their output is perfectly acceptable.
What's the difference between quiet quitting and laziness?▾
Quiet quitting refers to fulfilling job duties without extra effort or engagement beyond what's required, often to protect personal time and well-being. Laziness, in contrast, implies a deliberate avoidance of responsibilities or a failure to meet even basic expectations.
How can I stop feeling bad about doing just enough at work?▾
Focus on the actual requirements of your role and the quality of your output within those parameters. Reframe your perspective to view meeting expectations as successful, rather than feeling obligated to constantly exceed them. This can help shift your internal dialogue.

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