Mud. Mire. Ooze. Nasty, icky, yucky stuff.

Is that what comes to mind when you think of Sludge? Here's how we define it:

Sludge:

Any language in the work environment that is used to cast judgment about how people are spending their time. It makes people feel guilty and stressed out. And it's not about the work. "Ten o'clock and you're just getting in? Wish I had your job." "Women with kids should go part-time." "Leaving early?"

Sludge Justification:

A natural response to receiving Sludge. "Ten o'clock and you're just getting in?" "Sorry, my kid missed the bus this morning - I'm sure I'll be working through lunch to make up my time."

Back Sludge:

Talking with others behind co-workers' backs about how or when they work. "Those smokers sure get a lot of breaks." "How did he get a promotion? He's never here."

Sludge Anticipation:

Telling lies or making excuses about how you spend your time from 9-5 in anticipation of getting Sludged. "I have a doctor's appointment."