Worklife with Adam Grant
Protecting your time with Linda Babcock
May 6, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Linda Babcock, a Professor emerita of economics at Carnegie Mellon and co-author of 'The No Club,' dives into the complexities of gender dynamics in the workplace. She highlights how women often bear a disproportionate burden of non-promotable tasks and offers insights on setting boundaries. Together with Adam Grant, they share personal anecdotes on the struggle of saying no, explore the impact of societal expectations, and propose effective strategies to reclaim time and prioritize work that truly matters.
35:06
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Quick takeaways
- Women disproportionately take on non-promotable tasks due to societal pressures, leading to inequity and frustration in the workplace.
- Implementing strategies like the 24-hour rule and creating support networks can help individuals effectively refuse unwanted commitments.
Deep dives
The Struggle of Saying No
Many individuals face challenges when it comes to saying no, particularly women, who often deal with societal pressures to be agreeable and helpful. Research reveals that women are more likely to volunteer for non-promotable tasks, such as taking notes in meetings or organizing events, even when they do not want to. This tendency is not due to a lack of ability but rather to the expectation that they will take on these responsibilities. Such dynamics can lead to frustration and inequity in the workplace, where women disproportionately undertake tasks that do not advance their careers.
