“Every Day Is Exactly the Same,” With Teeth (2006) by Nine Inch Nails
I believe I can see the future
Cause I repeat the same routine
Far too often work becomes repetitive and mundane, the same old same old.
I think I used to have a purpose
But then again that might have been a dream
Why does the excitement of a new job, position, or project wear off so quickly? Where does the passion go?
I think I used to have a voice
Now I never make a sound
Part of the problem comes from the lack of appropriate communication throughout the organization, up, down and across the company. In other instances, employees are encouraged to ask questions or speak up but ignore the opportunity.
I can feel their eyes are watching
In case I lose myself again
Senior leaders are often guilty of perpetuating a culture that focuses more on mistakes and those who speak out than creative thinking and discussion.
I just do what I’ve been told
I really don’t want them to come around
It all leads to a dysfunctional workplace where flying under the radar and taking the safe route are culturally accepted norms.
I’m still inside here
A little bit comes bleeding through
Every now and then, though, something excites you and you show your zeal for work again, but it doesn’t last.
Sometimes I think I’m happy here
Sometimes, yet I still pretend
Instead of trying to convince yourself things are o.k., focus on how things could be.
I wish this could have been any other way
But I just don’t know, I don’t know what else I can do
You can be honest with yourself?
I can’t remember how this got started
But I can tell you exactly how it will end
If you’re the frustrated employee, do the necessary soul searching to pinpoint the type of work or company that will inspire you. Develop a plan to make it your reality. Managers and leaders, work to improve the culture instead of perpetuating it. Open lines of communication and encourage creative thinking. Recognize positive contributions and value productivity more than personality. Otherwise, you’ll be able to see the future, but feel like you’re watching reruns.