ArcaMax

Dear Annie: I'm struggling with something at work that's starting to affect not just my motivation but also my self-worth.

My boss has taken credit for my work on several occasions. These aren't minor tasks; I'm talking about full-scale projects I've managed from start to finish, ideas I've brainstormed and developed, and presentations I've poured hours into. In team meetings or when speaking to senior leadership, he presents my work as his own, with no mention of my involvement. And I'm left sitting there, trying to keep a professional face while feeling completely invisible.

I've always prided myself on being a team player. I don't need a standing ovation; I just want fair recognition. But lately, I find myself dreading meetings, pulling back from sharing ideas and questioning if any of it is worth it. I've worked so hard to build a career I'm proud of, and now I feel like I'm shrinking into the background while someone else stands in the spotlight.

Should I speak up? And if so, how do I do it without burning bridges or risking my job? -- Feeling Overlooked and Undermined

Dear Undermined: It's no small thing to have your hard work taken for granted -- or worse, claimed by someone else. You're not being petty. You're being honest about something that would frustrate and demoralize anyone.

While it's admirable that you've kept a team-player mindset, that doesn't mean you should allow yourself to be walked on. Recognition matters -- not for your ego, but for your career. If your boss is building his reputation on your effort, that's not leadership. That's theft, plain and simple.

You have every right to advocate for yourself. Start by documenting your contributions -- emails, drafts, project plans, anything that clearly shows your role. Then, request a private meeting with your boss. Stay calm and professional. Say something like, "I've noticed that in meetings, some of the work I've done isn't being credited. I'd really appreciate being acknowledged for my contributions moving forward."

Give them a chance to correct the behavior. If they don't -- or if it continues -- you may need to escalate the issue to HR or start looking elsewhere. A good workplace values the people who make it run, not just the ones who take the credit.

Stand tall. You've earned your place at the table.

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"How Can I Forgive My Cheating Partner?" is out now! Annie Lane's second anthology -- featuring favorite columns on marriage, infidelity, communication and reconciliation -- is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.