Let’s be real for a second: Being nice is great. Puppies are nice. Free donuts in the breakroom are nice. But being too nice at work? That’s a one-way ticket to Overworked, Underpaid, and Overlooked-ville. If you’re constantly bending over backward for your colleagues, swallowing your frustrations like a gourmet meal, or saying yes to every little request, guess what? You might be sabotaging your own success.
So, are you guilty of being too nice? Check out these six telltale signs, and what to do about them before your career turns into an endless loop of “Sure, I can do that!”
1. You Say “Yes” When You Want to Scream “NO”
You already have 37 things on your to-do list, but when your coworker casually asks, “Hey, can you help me with this?” your mouth betrays you: “Of course!” Meanwhile, your inner voice is screaming, WHY DID I SAY THAT?!
The Fix:
Start practicing the magical phrase: “I don’t have the capacity for that right now.” (Bonus: It sounds professional and assertive.)
2. You’re the Office Therapist, Without the Pay
You know everyone’s deepest, darkest work frustrations because you’re the one they vent to. But guess what? While you’re playing Dr. Fix-It, they’re climbing the career ladder without you.
The Fix:
Set boundaries! A simple, “That sounds tough, I hope you figure it out!” followed by a swift subject change works wonders.
3. You Apologize for Things That Aren’t Your Fault
If “Sorry!” is your go-to response for everything from technical difficulties to someone bumping into you, we need an intervention. Over-apologizing makes you seem unsure of yourself, and guess who doesn’t get promoted? People who seem unsure of themselves.
The Fix:
Replace “Sorry” with “Thanks.” Example: Instead of “Sorry for the delay,” try “Thanks for your patience!” Small shift, big confidence boost.
4. You Do Other People’s Work for Them
Your coworker “forgets” a deadline, and suddenly, it’s your problem. You step in, save the day, and get… absolutely no credit. Sound familiar?
The Fix:
Channel your inner CEO and start delegating. If someone tries to dump their work on you, respond with, “I trust you’ve got this!” and move along.
5. You Avoid Conflict Like It’s a 5:00 PM Meeting on a Friday
Your coworker takes credit for your idea in a meeting, and instead of speaking up, you smile and nod like an unpaid background actor in a corporate drama. Conflict is uncomfortable, sure. But staying silent keeps you invisible.
The Fix:
Practice a firm but friendly response. Try: “Actually, I mentioned that in last week’s meeting, I’d love to build on it!” (Smile included, but optional.)
6. You Work Harder, But Not Smarter
You clock in early, stay late, and somehow, SOMEHOW, get passed over for promotions. Meanwhile, Chad from Sales barely lifts a finger and gets all the glory. Why? Because being nice won’t get you ahead. Being strategic will.
The Fix:
Stop thinking hard work alone will get you noticed. Speak up about your wins, advocate for yourself, and make sure your boss knows how valuable you are.
Final Thought: Are You Ready to Put Yourself First?
Being kind and being respected are not mutually exclusive. You can be a team player without being a pushover. You can be helpful without being the office doormat. And most importantly? You can stand up for yourself and still be liked.
So, tell me: Which of these signs hit home for you? And what’s the first thing you’re going to stop doing today? Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it!