23. Making Sense of Work

Why does work feel exhausting even when you care and work hard? Often, it’s not burnout or lack of motivation—it’s unclear systems. In this episode of Unlearning Work, Erin Merideth explores how workplace systems shape behavior, stress, and self-doubt. When expectations are fuzzy, feedback is vague, and priorities keep shifting, people don’t disengage—they start guessing. This conversation helps listeners understand: Why work stress is often a system problem, not a personal failure How learned work habits form in response to unclear environments Why performance reviews create anxiety when success isn’t clearly defined How understanding organizational systems can reduce overthinking and burnout A practical mindset shift that helps work feel lighter—even if nothing changes This episode is ideal for professionals, leaders, and employees who want to reduce work stress, stop overthinking feedback, and understand how workplace systems really work. If work feels heavy, confusing, or personal—this episode will help it make sense.   📲 Subscribe & Stay Connected 📥 Download the Unlearning Work App for exclusive tools and behavior design resources🎧 Subscribe to the podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform⭐ Leave a review if this episode resonated—it helps others discover the work📬 Join the Work Reimagined Newsletter for behind-the-scenes insights and free behavior frameworks📱 Follow Erin Merideth on Instagram, LinkedIn, X (Twitter), and Facebook for weekly leadership and behavioral science insights