The Curse of the "Constant Fixer"
How to Manage the Well-Intentioned Know-It-All
We’ve all worked (or might be still working) with a “Constant Fixer.”
This is the colleague who offers unsolicited advice, rewrites your emails on the fly, and always believes there’s a better way to approach whatever you’re doing.
While their intentions might be harmless, working with them can be a minefield for your ego and sanity.
Think you might have a Fixer on your team? Just ask them what they were thinking when they decided to rearrange your meticulously curated sticky-note system. Watch as they launch into a spirited explanation of color-coding efficiency.
Why Do They Do This?
Let’s dissect the phenomenon. Constant Fixers are hardwired with the overwhelming urge to improve, optimize, and generally “make things better.” The neuroscience behind it is fascinating — some experts theorize that they gain a dopamine rush from the act of problem-solving. Think of it as a kind of mental itch they can’t help but scratch.
Unfortunately for us, this relentless urge to help can quickly become disruptive to our own work.
The Perils of Being “Fixed”
Constant Fixers can erode our self-confidence. Imagine you’ve just delivered a presentation you worked tirelessly on. Instead of acknowledging your effort, the Fixer immediately starts listing potential improvements. It’s like the moment you finish a marathon, someone shouts, “You tied your laces wrong! That’s going to hurt later!”
Worse, this barrage of well-intentioned advice can erode decision-making abilities. If you know any sentence you utter might trigger a flurry of suggestions, you might hold back. It’s the verbal equivalent of tiptoeing through a room filled with mousetraps.
But hold on, let’s not villainize the Fixers! They’re often brilliant people with valuable insights. They just don’t always understand the art of timely and appropriate delivery.
How to Survive (and Maybe Even Harness) Your Resident Fixer
So, what’s a person to do? Here are a few strategies to keep your sanity (and your color-coded sticky notes) intact:
Appreciate the intent. Sometimes, Fixers really are trying to help. Instead of getting annoyed, channel your inner anthropologist and study their behavior. What triggers their “fixes”? Can you spot patterns in the types of problems they gravitate towards?
Be direct… with a side of humor. Directness is your friend. Try something like: “Thanks for the suggestion, but I’m going with my gut on this one. Want to brainstorm a separate project together later?” Humor can be a lifesaver when dealing with delicate work dynamics.
Set boundaries early and often. Let your Fixer know when you truly need help versus when you’d rather work solo. For example: “I’m heads down on this draft right now — can we set aside time to discuss my approach later?”
Harness their powers for good. Sometimes, their advice really is invaluable. Channel their problem-solving zeal into collaborative projects. A Fixer can be a fantastic brainstorming partner if given clear guidelines.
Can a Fixer Change Their Spots?
The good news is, Fixers often mellow with time and self-awareness. If you can delicately point out their “fixing” tendencies, you might spark a breakthrough.
But if nothing works, and they’re truly wearing you down, don’t be afraid to raise the issue with your manager. A good manager should be able to coach both of you towards more productive communication.
Even the most well-intentioned Fixer is no substitute for your own confidence and expertise. Trust your instincts, set those boundaries, and occasionally, enjoy the mild absurdity of having someone so invested in your work (whether you asked them to be or not).
Beyond the Workday
When Your Partner is a Fixer
Constant Fixers don’t magically switch personalities when they leave the office. If you have one at home, it’s a whole different ballgame. Here are some additional tips:
Pick Your Battles. Is it really the end of the world if they load the dishwasher “their” way? Sometimes, it’s easier to let the little fixes slide to preserve long-term harmony.
Gently call them out. Use a playful line like, “Uh oh, my resident expert has entered the room! Should I brace myself for a kitchen remodel analysis?” Humor cuts through tension.
Redirect their energy. Do you have a home renovation project you’ve been putting off? Channel their problem-solving zeal into a task where it will be truly appreciated.
Fixer Culture: What Does it Say About an Organization?
If you have a workplace overrun with Fixers, it might speak to a broader cultural issue.
Lack of Autonomy: Constant fixing can flourish in workplaces where employees feel micromanaged and unable to make their own decisions. Are there opportunities to empower individuals and teams?
Fear of Failure: An underlying fear of things going wrong motivates some fixers. Is your organization creating a safe space for experimentation where failure is seen as a learning opportunity?
Remember, a single Constant Fixer might be amusing (at times). But, a workplace overrun with them can stifle innovation and demoralize even the most capable employees.
The Bottom Line
Constant Fixers can be a mixed bag. Embrace the humor, tap into their problem-solving zeal when appropriate, but don’t let them shake your confidence. By understanding their motivations and setting clear boundaries, you can navigate these dynamics with grace and maybe even a few laughs along the way.
Use the The VIA Character Strength Survey to reveal your unique strengths that fuel your ability to thrive as a leader. Take action now and find out what your strengths are!