If your workplace feels like it’s perpetually overwhelming, chances are it’s not you—it’s them. Many organizations operate in a state of disorganization, lacking clear systems, vision, or a mission. And somehow, they still expect you to thrive in the chaos. Spoiler alert: you won’t. When a workplace doesn’t have the time, interest, or capacity to train you or help you grow, the inevitable result is burnout, not brilliance.
Organizations with a weak USP (Unique Selling Proposition) often rely on hiring talented individuals with the misguided hope that their brilliance will solve systemic problems. But here’s the truth: no amount of talent can compensate for broken structures. Instead of addressing foundational issues, these companies exploit your personality, creativity, and hidden talents, squeezing you dry in the process. It’s exhausting, it’s unfair, and it’s overwhelming. The truth is, they’re not empowering you; they’re draining you.
The trap of “figure it out”
One of the most common red flags in such workplaces is the dreaded phrase: “figure it out.” This seemingly innocent directive is actually shorthand for we don’t care enough to help you succeed. It means they’re throwing you into the deep end without a life jacket, expecting you to tackle complex problems without proper preparation, guidance, or support.
Let’s be clear: good organizations don’t operate this way. They don’t leave employees floundering under the guise of autonomy. Instead, they gradually expose you to challenges, provide targeted training, and mentor you to build the confidence and skills needed to tackle tough tasks. This approach fosters growth, not anxiety. It’s how healthy workplaces create problem solvers who are both capable and motivated.
When a company repeatedly dumps responsibilities on you without equipping you for success, it’s not growth—it’s exploitation. And the longer you’re stuck in this cycle, the more likely you are to experience burnout and mental health struggles.
Perpetual Crisis Mode Isn’t Sustainable
If your workplace feels like it’s always in crisis mode, that’s another red flag. No team can function effectively while constantly firefighting. Crisis management might be necessary occasionally, but it should never be the default. When it becomes the norm, it’s a sign that leadership is failing to address deeper structural problems.
Employees in these environments are often expected to clean up messes they didn’t create. Worse, they’re expected to do so without adequate resources, support, or even acknowledgment. This kind of toxic culture erodes morale, and leaves remaining employees feeling trapped in an endless loop of stress and overwhelm.
How to protect your mental health
Protecting your mental health in such environments starts with recognizing the signs of an unhealthy workplace. Here are some steps you can take:
Set boundaries: Learn to say no to responsibilities that you’re not equipped to handle, especially if your workplace isn’t providing the necessary support. Remember, it’s okay to advocate for yourself and prioritize your well-being over additional stress.
Ask for training: If you’re being asked to take on new tasks, insist on targeted training or mentorship to build the skills you need. If your organization values you, they’ll invest in your growth.
Recognize exploitation: Be wary of “opportunities” that seem more like traps. If you’re being asked to learn everything from scratch with no guidance, that’s not empowerment—it’s exploitation.
Evaluate leadership: Good leaders mentor, guide, and support their teams. If your leadership isn’t doing this, it might be time to reevaluate whether the organization is a good fit for you.
Seek support: Talk to colleagues, mentors, or a mental health professional about what you’re experiencing. Sometimes, just voicing your frustrations can provide clarity and relief.
Know when to walk away: If the workplace culture constantly undermines your mental health and refuses to change, it’s okay to move on. Your well-being is more important than any job.
What good organizations do differently
Healthy workplaces understand that employees thrive when they feel supported. They invest in building your capacity through training and mentorship. They create an environment where you’re encouraged to take on challenges but aren’t left to fend for yourself. Most importantly, they value your mental health as much as your output.
When challenges arise, these organizations don’t dump the problem in your lap with a dismissive “figure it out.” Instead, they approach it collaboratively, offering resources and guidance to help you succeed. They recognize that their success depends on the well-being of their employees.
The Bottom line
If your workplace overwhelms you with intangible demands and offers no support, it’s not a reflection of your abilities—it’s a failure on their part. Don’t let anyone convince you that being overworked and under-supported is the price of success. Growth happens in environments that nurture and challenge you, not in ones that exploit and exhaust you.
You deserve a workplace that values your mental health as much as your professional contributions. Don’t settle for anything less.
