Superman / Superwoman Syndrome affects many of us in the workplace, sometimes even without our knowledge. It’s all too easy to fall into the trap of being frightened to delegate simple tasks, or pass on responsibility to others. Perhaps you feel you’re the only one in your department who can do certain things, or as you’re able to do them faster, you’re more valuable to the business.
This view could not be further from the truth.
While Superman Syndrome could initially be seen as an admirable quality, it has negative traits which need to be identified and challenged. Why? Let’s investigate this common workplace practice and find out.
So, what exactly is Superman Syndrome?
Every office seems to have that workaholic colleague, the one who not only prefers to do everything themselves, but has this notion that it has to be that way. No one else can do anything better, faster, more effectively, and no one else can resolve issues. Superman or Superwoman is that central figure – the lynchpin – who everyone goes to and everyone relies on, the one who single-handedly seems to manage the business.
An admirable quality or an unsustainable problem?
Traditionally, Superman is always perceived to be the hero. The caped crusader flying in to save the day. In reality, the office Superman needs to understand boundaries. It’s great to have someone on hand who knows everything about managing the business, but it’s unsustainable and an unhealthy business model.
Tackling the issue: Learning to say goodbye to the cape and tights
Coaching, outsourcing, learning how to delegate and trust others are steps in the right direction. The overall aim of getting the business to function effectively without you means saying goodbye to Superman once and for all.
Instead of immediately thinking, ‘I’ve got to do this myself’, why not consider who else you could train or encourage to step up?
Tackling Superman Syndrome takes time and patience, but will bring tangible benefits. By breaking some of those established habits, changing the ways you operate, and beginning to turn your thinking around making it less about you, but someone else in your business, everyone will benefit.
The organisation itself grows stronger, individuals gain self-confidence, skills and begin to feel valued. And ultimately the company culture improves.
We understand how difficult it may be to change the habits of a lifetime. If you recognise the symptoms of Superman (or woman) Syndrome and you’d like expert help and advice to help to overcome them, please feel free to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.
