Nothing bothers me more than having a coworker who does the absolute bare minimum while you're running around getting all the work done. I've had a couple of jobs like this, including the one I'm at now. It drives me up the wall and back down again. I can't count how many times I've been off for a couple of days and come back to do all the work that should have been done while I was gone plus that day's work.

Then they have the nerve to take a break the second you come in like they are so overworked. Really?

This is the type of foolishness that makes me want to quit every time. I will not be the one who does everything. And I will not be taken advantage of. But here's why I can't quit and neither can you.

First off, I have a whole family to support. It's my responsibility to keep everyone alive and somewhat sane. This little crappy situation is going to keep us in food and clothes while I pursue bigger ventures on the side. Because when those take off I'm on the first thing smoking.

Next, what's done in the dark will always come to light eventually; even if eventually seems like forever and a day. When you change departments, or when you go on vacation, it'll be clear how much you did because someone else will have to do it. Believe me, you're starting to look better to somebody; and hopefully that somebody is a big wig who actually recognizes your value. Because let's be real...big wigs hardly ever recognize the hardworking talent beneath them.

I can remember a job I had where I was running rampant literally doing everything in my department and helping in other departments. I actually looked one of my managers in the face and said, "Y'all must think I'm five different people."

And no matter how many times I had conversations with all the managers about being promoted--because I was doing a supervisor's job anyway, just without the pay raise--it never happened. I got so fed up I went on break one day and never went back to work. They missed me when I left.

Lastly, and probably the most rewarding, is that all of that hard work you put in is getting you prepared for something bigger and better. A good work ethic never goes to waste. When you finally get another opportunity--or just take one--you'll notice that the skills and the patience you got from being around that lazy S.O.B. are putting you in a higher position while they're still down there doing nothing.

So hold on, it gets better. I know because it's my everyday experience. And I have to believe in something or I'm going to lose it on everybody.