Why Being a Little ‘Problematic’ at Work Could Save Your Sanity, Says Mumbai Expert

When you hear the word “problematic” you probably picture a nightmare coworker who throws a fit in meetings. But in a candid interview with Hindustan Times, a Mumbai‑based career‑coach turned the term on its head, suggesting that a measured, intentional dose of ‘problematic‑ness’ might actually be the secret sauce for preserving mental health at work.

She explains that many of us have been conditioned to be ever‑agreeable, to nod along, to finish every task without questioning the premise. Over time that habit turns into a silent pressure cooker. "If you never push back, you end up internalising the stress," she says, pausing to sip her tea, as if recalling countless late‑night brainstorming sessions with frazzled clients.

What does ‘being slightly problematic’ look like in practice? It isn’t about causing drama or undermining teammates. Rather, it’s about setting clear, respectful boundaries, asking ‘why’ when a deadline feels impossible, and speaking up when a policy seems to clash with personal values. Small acts – a politely‑phrased email asking for clarification, a quick chat with a manager about workload – can create a buffer against the burnout epidemic that’s gripping offices across the city.

Research backs her up. Studies from the Indian Institute of Management show that employees who feel empowered to voice concerns report 30 % lower levels of anxiety and higher job satisfaction. The psychology is simple: when you own your narrative, you reclaim a sense of control, and that autonomy is a known antidote to chronic stress.

She also highlights a cultural nuance specific to India’s corporate landscape. Hierarchies are often steep, and dissent can be mistaken for disrespect. To navigate this, she suggests framing feedback as curiosity rather than criticism. For example, instead of saying, “This deadline is unrealistic,” try, “I’m curious about how we arrived at this timeline; can we explore ways to streamline the process?” The shift in wording softens the perceived threat while still getting the point across.

Of course, there’s a fine line. Too much ‘problematic‑ness’ can alienate teammates and erode trust. The key, she says, is moderation – think of it as seasoning, not the main ingredient. A pinch of constructive pushback, balanced with collaboration, keeps the workplace dynamic and your mind healthy.

So the next time you feel that knot in your stomach before a meeting, ask yourself: am I being too compliant? Would a gentle, well‑timed question help? In the words of the Mumbai coach, “Being a little problematic isn’t a flaw; it’s a self‑care strategy.”