'Quiet rebellions' are the subtle way people are taking back control at work

When you get dressed for work in the morning and look at the drab blazers and shift dresses that comply with ‘company dress code’ chic, you might feel a little disheartened.

But when you sit at your desk, it may take a second for your boss to notice that you’ve accessorised your formal ensemble with a pair of bright, frilly socks.

Yes, it’s breaking the rules – but only a bit.

Not enough to be pulled into a disciplinary meeting, but just enough to know that you haven’t quite followed the rules.

Sound like a familiar scenario? Well, you might not realise it, but you’re quietly rebelling.

It might sound petty, but these quiet rebellions, as we’re calling them, can be what it takes to help you get through the working day.

Whether it’s turning up to work five minutes late, or using your annoying colleague’s favourite pen, it gives you a sense of control over a working week, that can often feel out of your hands.

LinkedIn research found that 12% of UK professionals are unhappy in their current role, so it’s no surprise to see this dissatisfaction manifest into ‘quiet rebellions’ in the workplace.

But psychologist, Emma Kenny, says not all quiet rebellions have to be chalked up to an unfulfilling job.

She says: ‘Sometimes, we do things like this, purely because we like to feel a bit naughty and mischievous.

‘But also, as humans, we like to feel independent and autonomous. A rebellious action like this makes us feel like we’re taking a bit of power back – even when someone isn’t aware that you’ve done it – it’s still a representation of control.

‘Yes it’s naughty, but is it really doing that much damage? No. It’s about readdressing the balance.

‘Just knowing that we can get one over on the system, over our employer, reflects a sense of control in a world that often feels very out of control.’

And, they’re actually fairly useful outlets for our frustration. Emma says: ‘As long as you’re not consistently targeting someone, or being cruel, a quiet rebellion is a way to get a message across, without causing any real conflict.’

However, if you are unhappy at work, small acts of defiance won’t actually solve what’s at the heart of the issue.

Careers expert at LinkedIn, Charlotte Davies, says in this scenario, quiet rebellions can make things even worse.

She tells Metro.co.uk that it’s best to address the problem directly. ‘Start an honest, open conversation with your manager,’ says Charlotte. ‘Try addressing your problem head on and be upfront about what is frustrating you, and if you’re nervous, brush up on a LinkedIn Learning conflict resolution course beforehand. 

‘Even if there is no immediate solution, your employer will likely take note for the future.

‘If that doesn’t work, then maybe it’s time to consider a role that is more in tune with your skills and values.’

And Emma also warns that, if you do chose to quietly rebel, you need to monitor how you go about it.

She says: ‘If you keep doing things to antagonise an individual that you don’t like, instead of speaking the truth about how you feel, in the long term that’s likely to be an insidious activity, and it’s going to cause you problems.’

‘The best way to approach it is to ask yourself: Could it cause me harm? Does it benefit me psychology? Or does this action harm someone else?

‘If it’s just allowing yourself to be a bit naughty, it might do you the world of good.’

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