Dan J. Harkey

Master Educator | Business & Finance Consultant | Mentor

The Straw That Broke The Camel's Back

At what point are the conditions so unbearable that we are no longer capable of functioning rationally? I bet you can name a few!

by Dan J. Harkey

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This practical phrase refers to processes or procedures that become so complex that they are no longer comprehensible.

Examples:

Imagine the sheer volume of laws and regulations a lender or real estate agent must navigate.  It’s not just a few, but a multitude, making it an overwhelming and daunting task.

A businessperson must be familiar with numerous laws and regulations, making it impossible to comprehend them all.

Consider the journey of a budding entrepreneur.   To establish a business, they must navigate a complex web of applications, approvals, and fees, all in an effort to appease the bureaucratic gatekeepers.  These ‘bureaucrats’ are the officials or administrators responsible for enforcing the laws and regulations.  Their approval processes are a formality and a crucial determinant of a business’s success.

Consider a hardworking businessperson who earns a decent income.  However, he is left with only a fraction of his earnings after paying all his taxes and fees.  This is a stark reminder of the significant financial toll that bureaucratic processes can take, creating a sense of economic strain.

For a person who tolerates inconsistencies from others or institutions, truths seem like a mirage.

Every day, the public is bombarded with misinformation and propaganda from mainstream media.  This not only clouds our understanding but also shapes our perception of reality.

Many more examples of straws that broke the camel’s back exist in our high-stress lifestyles.  At what point are the conditions so unbearable that we no longer function rationally? I bet you can name a few!

Why not share a few examples from your own life?  Your experiences could resonate with others and help shed light on the widespread impact of bureaucratic processes, making you feel heard and understood.