« I feel like I always have to prove myself ».

January 14, 2026

« I feel like I always have to prove myself ».

2026 has just kicked off and sadly I’m already receiving messages like this:

“I feel a constant pressure to prove myself and be the best…”

This sentence says a lot about today’s work culture.
It’s a sign of our times.When I read this, I understand your frustration, and I truly empathize with you.

Constantly having to prove yourself and be the best is exhausting.

Unfortunately, the corporate world hasn’t really changed much or advanced in terms of taking care of their employees well-being, only the era has changed with employees being able to share their experiences. What many companies forget, or overlook is that a human is a human.

Our brains and personal lives do not function like AI. 😊

If you want to know a penny for my thoughts: do your job well, so no one can say you didn’t. But once the workday ends, disconnect. Value your life outside of work as well as the people you care about, your passions, and your interests. The majority of us have to work and earn the money we need to live and enjoy our passions, but work should not consume our lives.

That’s life for most of us in a nutshell. Far from the easy life that social media spreads 😊

Happy New Year. Wishing you all the best in your professional endeavors.

Copyright © 2026 Third Culture Professionals

Photo Pexels - Ron Lach

Brid Doherty-Appriou

Brid is a native English speaker, fluent in French, a graduate in both International Business Communication and in Instructional Design. She is also accredited (TEFL) to teach English as a foreign language. Her professional experience spans over 20 years in an international environment, working in CAC 40 communication groups and as a consultant in Executive Search.

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