Notions, Undervalued Mid-Performers, Lazy Geniuses, and the Myth of Ambition

In this episode of A Word with Yourself, Lesley and Jennie explore why the most consistent and efficient people at work are often the least recognized. We talk about the mid performer—the dependable pro who doesn’t chase promotions—and the lazy genius who quietly finds faster, smarter ways to get things done (and then gets handed even more work for it).

We unpack the myth that everyone should want to climb the ladder, the problem with rewarding visibility over value, and the cultural fear of having notions—especially when admitting you’re good at your job feels like a step too far.

Because doing your job well should be enough. And the people who do? They’re often the ones keeping it all running.

Timestamps:

0.23 - 17.01: The Mid-Performer

17.05 - 20.30: Notions

20.31 - 26.06: The Lazy Genius

26.07 - End: The Lazy Man's Load