There are certain lies that we have come to believe about being successful at work that simply are not true. Here are eight lies you shouldn’t fall for:
Lie #1: To Be a Good Team Player, You Have to Love Working in Teams
Many people—especially introverts—do their best work independently. And that’s okay. Being a good team player doesn’t mean you have to thrive in a group setting or love brainstorming sessions. It means:
- Showing up for your team when needed
- Completing your work on time and with quality
- Sharing credit and supporting others
You can be a strong contributor without being the life of the team meeting.
Lie #2: You Must Keep Your Professional and Personal Lives Completely Separate
While professionalism is important, completely walling off your personal life at work can create distance between you and your coworkers. When people only see your work and never the human behind it, they may view you as a “human doing” rather than a “human being.”
This doesn’t mean oversharing, but giving colleagues a glimpse into who you are—sharing a hobby, a family photo, or a personal story—can help build trust, connection, and relatability.
Lie #3: Saying “Call Me If You Need Help” Is Enough
Statements like “My door is always open” or “Just text me if you need anything” sound supportive—but they’re passive. Most people won’t reach out unless you proactively offer help.Instead, practice active support:
- “Is there anything I can help you with today?”
- “Do you have questions about that project we just discussed?”
- “What’s one thing I can do to make this easier for you?”
Being proactive makes a much bigger impact.
Lie #4: The Busiest People Are the Most Productive
Busy doesn’t always mean effective. We’ve all seen coworkers who appear constantly swamped but don’t produce much because they’re not managing their time well.
True productivity is about efficiency and output, not just hours worked or how packed your schedule looks. Sometimes, the most productive people are the ones who look the least busy—because they’ve mastered time management.
Lie #5: Only Extroverts Thrive in Front-Facing Roles
Leadership, customer service, and public speaking are often associated with extroverts—but introverts can excel in these roles too.
Introverts may lead quietly, listen more, and communicate thoughtfully—qualities that can be incredibly effective. Many highly successful public speakers, executives, and influencers are introverts who thrive without compromising who they are.
Lie #6: Good Work Speaks for Itself
While quality work is important, it’s not always enough. If you’re not visible and vocal, you may be overlooked. In the workplace, visibility matters. You can do this when you:
- Share updates on your work
- Speak up in meetings
- Celebrate wins (yours and others’)
Out of sight really can mean out of mind. Make sure people know the value you’re bringing.
Lie #7: Asking for Help Is a Sign of Weakness
The truth? Asking for help is a sign of strength and confidence. It shows that you’re self-aware, humble, and willing to collaborate.
Many of my clients say that once they got comfortable asking for help, they felt a new sense of freedom and connection. It fosters teamwork and often deepens relationships with colleagues.
Lie #8: You Are Irreplaceable
No matter how skilled, knowledgeable, or connected you are, you are not irreplaceable—and neither am I. Yes, your contributions matter. Yes, your absence would be felt. But over time, every role can be filled. Believing you’re irreplaceable can lead to burnout and unnecessary pressure. Instead, focus on doing meaningful work, building systems others can use, and mentoring others to grow.
Final Thoughts
These myths can quietly shape how we show up at work—often in ways that hold us back. But by challenging these beliefs, we can create a healthier, more authentic version of success.