Double work for half pay? No way!

Dear Harriette: I just recently found out that an incompetent co-worker makes more money than I do and I am wondering if I should be upset about it. Hired three years after me, he has been a complete mess, which adds to the stress of my work environment. I am constantly double-checking what he does and correcting his screw-ups, and I was in shock when I learned he is getting overpaid to be a pain. While it is his fault he makes mistakes, his salary offer was not within his control. Working with him annoyed me before because of all of my added tasks, but now that I’ve discovered the money aspect, I can hardly stand being in the same office with him! I’m not sure my feelings are justified, and I’m not happy with all of the pent-up animosity I have toward him. Help! — Erica, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Dear Erica: Life isn’t always fair. That includes life at work. Rather than dwelling on things you can’t change — like your co-worker’s paycheck — focus on what you can. Evaluate whether you have to clean up his messes all the time. What would happen to you if you stop? Can you protect yourself without doing his job? Better yet, can you inspire him to do a better job? His salary infuriates you because of his ability. Why not do your job better and suggest ways he can do his more efficiently also? Strategic thoughtfulness may help you sleep better.