Weaponized Incompetence Explained Through A Comic With An Otter As The Main Character
Not being able to accomplish tasks or lacking the skills to achieve a goal can lead to feelings of insecurity about one’s competence. Society upholds its expectations for us, as do we for ourselves.
Sometimes, we seek help from others who are more than capable of completing the tasks we cannot, and there’s nothing wrong with that. The problem arises when this incompetence is weaponized, allowing others to accomplish certain things without you doing any heavy lifting.
This phenomenon is simply termed weaponized incompetence. A Singaporean data analyst who shares his insights through comics has touched on this topic.
He uses the character of a Singaporean otter to convey his message about subjects like this one. The otter describes weaponized incompetence as a toxic pattern that exists in various types of relationships, something we must be aware of.
Have we done this to others? Does it exist in our current relationships?
These are the questions that the otter’s comic prompts us to consider. Not only that, but it also outlines the steps you can take to ensure you don’t engage in this behavior in the future.
The otter’s comics are shared on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. The topics range from various insights this Singaporean data analyst learns that might be useful for others to know as well.
What exactly is weaponized incompetence, and how does it come into play in your life?
Otter overheard a conversation one day about this exact topic.
Otter is very much aware of what incompetence is.
It’s a pattern wherein a person pretends to be incompetent at something so that another person will do it for them.
Weaponizing it is something he wasn’t as aware of, which made him doubt whether he had ever done it to others.
This situation is often seen in heterosexual relationships, where men divert their needs to women.
Otter discussed examples of where weaponized incompetence is commonly present, such as in the workplace.
In friendships filled with people who want to go places, yet only one person handles all the planning.
The most prevalent environment for weaponized incompetence to thrive is in relationships.
What are the signs that it is happening, or that you’re doing it?
Subtle gestures of manipulation also fall into this category.
If you’re the one being constantly manipulated, you’ll feel that you can’t rely on your partner.
All of these factors, along with the distrust, will burn you out in the long run.
In addition to burnout, these are the consequences of weaponized incompetence.
It is possible to address weaponized incompetence.
If you’re already worried about your partner, assess what you think you can compromise to let go of in their care.
Break the mold and learn what you can to help.
However, we shouldn’t be quick to assume that they simply can’t perform tasks solely because of weaponized incompetence.
If all else fails, even after communicating with others, then they may not truly want to change.
With important traits such as understanding and sensitivity, you can navigate relationships more effectively.
Improving yourself creates room for your valuable relationships to grow.
There are many trials in trying to learn and become better. It’s not always an easy road, but it offers more rewards than sticking to toxic personalities.
Not only will you become more attuned to what is better for yourself, but also for others. The growth you achieve will help you build a supportive circle or environment for the future.
Share this article:
