>> A professional’s insecurity is rooted in the inherent intangibility of knowledge work. How do you convince your client that you know something worthwhile and justify the high fees you charge? The insecurity caused by this intangibility is exacerbated by the rigorous “up or out” promotion system perpetuated by elite professional organizations, which turns your colleagues into your competitors. How do you convince your boss that you’re worth more than your closest colleague? There is no chance for a professional to rest on their laurels — or even to rest.
From the article:<p>>Paradoxically, the professionals I studied still believe that they have autonomy and that they are overworking by choice.<p>Describes the HN crowd :) .
It's like a brainwashed solder, who will give up his life for his country. He still believes he has autonomy and choice.<p>I guess the overwork can be justified if the reward are proportionate. In these times when most people is insecure about their job, just having to retain one's job is 'reward' enough for most people.