Module 6
A trope that has made it’s rounds in the last few decades and has been perpetuated by movies, TV shows, and even video games is the “workaholic” trope. As someone who is currently navigating both pursuing a Bachelor’s degree and working, I can see how many others may see me as this stereotype. Often times in media, the “workaholic” stereotype is seen as an individual who is emotionally distant, relentless, and consumed by ambition. In almost all modern media, I’ve noticed this stereotype to be the individual that gives an appearance of not caring about personal relationships or other people as a whole. Considering that this trope has been discernable in media since the 1960’s, I believe it is worth dissecting it’s accuracy and how it affects individuals in the modern world.
Often in movies, the “workaholic” stereotype is depicted as a clean, professional urbanite that only lives to work. Think of someone who shows up early to the office and is the last one to leave everyday. This trope often includes working on weekends and being constantly bombarded by emails with not a single moment of relaxation. The media portrays these driven individuals as having their life together on the professional front, but absolutely in shambles in their personal life. The explanation in most media is that due to their lack of personal time for close relationships, family, or even close friends these relationships are fractured. Additionally, there are numerous occasions when the “go-getter” trope choses to prioritize their career over landmark events in their life. In the vast majority of media this includes funerals, family reunions, marriages or even neglecting their own partners for career related gain. In media, there is sometimes an emphasis on even committing crimes to achieve their aspirations. Essentially, this “workaholic” stereotype is seen as socially miserable, but checks all the boxes in being a successful individual at a glance.
Now is this stereotype accurate? In some cases, most definitely. Which is why it is constantly a recurring theme in the media. It is relatable and almost everyone knows at least someone who prioritizes their career over their social or personal relationships. Studies from the Bureau of Labor Statistics state that individuals in high-pressure fields often work over 50 hours a week which most definitely has an impact on their personal life. Workplace stress created by these socio-economic work conditions are most definitely a real phenomenon and leaves many with no life after work. Moreover, this ties into the constantly recurring concept that these “workaholics” have no sense of work-life balance, struggle to enjoy life, and are viewed as drones with little personality. The most popular examples that come to mind when thinking of the “workaholic” stereotype are Jordan Belfort in the movie Wolf of Wall Street and Donald Draper from the hit series Mad Men. Both individuals in white collar professions that heavily prioritize success in business while sabotaging their personal lives for their career aspirations.
In my opinion, a perspective that is missing from this stereotype are those who have a proper work-life balance. I believe that this “trope” often focuses on the working white-collar man and fails to show how other occupations can have similar work environments. Long hours are not specific to these occupations and more enduring conditions can be found in blue-collar careers as well. While in many ways the stereo type may be accurate, the truth is that it is an exaggeration. Films, media, and TV Shows all want a character that creates an interesting story line. A realistic depiction of a “workaholic” that knows how to manage their priorities is boring. I believe the “workaholic” caricature is more harmful than helpful. While it may exhibit an example of success, the ugly underbelly is severing the relationships of those who are the closest. Unfortunately, while this “trope” exposes the truth of these lifestyles many strive to be a “Jordan Belfort” that can get away with it.
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