How to Handle a Lazy Co-Worker Without Losing Your Mind

We’ve all been there. You’re pulling your weight (and maybe someone else’s), while your lazy co-worker seems to coast through the day—leaving frustration and extra work for everyone else. Whether you’re in a corporate office, a remote team, or working in the field, dealing with someone who isn’t carrying their load can feel unfair and exhausting. For more on why fairness matters click here.

But what if nature had something to teach us? As a behavioral scientist who studies animals and humans alike, I’ve found that solutions often lie in unexpected places.

Here are 5 tools to implement if you want to get your work done and keep your sanity:

Tool #1: Clarify Roles—Like Meerkats on a Mission. In meerkat colonies, each member knows their role—sentinel, babysitter, forager. Confusion leads to chaos. In the workplace, unclear expectations allow people to fly under the radar. Request role clarification from your supervisor to ensure accountability across the board.

Tool #2: Lead by Example—Inspired by Elephant Empathy. Elephants are known for their social intelligence. When one slacks, others often compensate—but not indefinitely. Model the behavior you want to see while setting quiet boundaries on how much you’re willing to over-function.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Verdolin 2023

Tool #3: Document and Communicate—Like Chimps Handling Conflict. Chimpanzees don’t ignore disruptions. They address them—sometimes one on one and sometimes through creating alliances. Take a page from their playbook: document patterns of missed deadlines or incomplete tasks and address the issue calmly with your team or manager.

Tool #4: Choose Your Battles—Channel Your Inner Owl. Owls are observant and strategic (and outstanding stealthy hunters). Not every conflict needs a confrontation. If the lazy co-worker’s behavior isn’t impacting you directly or your job performance, it may be more productive to redirect your energy elsewhere.

Tool #5: Protect Your Mental Space. Even animals retreat or redirect when social dynamics become too toxic. You can do the same by setting firm boundaries on availability, avoiding gossip, and practicing detachment. If you want some tips on how to set boundaries see my blogpost on boundaries.

Lazy co-workers aren’t just annoying—they disrupt the social contract of the workplace. But other animals show us that with the right tools—clear roles, modeled behavior, smart communication, and firm boundaries—we can navigate the challenge with strength and calm.

Want more tips on handling difficult team dynamics?

Watch my YouTube video: How to Deal With a Lazy Coworker – Animal Behavior Insights

Learn how bees, wolves, and even elephants manage team roles—and how you can apply those strategies at work!

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