This is a Lexicon entry: the mechanism, when it shows up, and the countermeasure. The full correction, with real-world cases and the audit prompt, hasn't been written yet.
Definition
A psychological pattern in which an individual compulsively takes on the burdens and problems of others, believing the world cannot function without their constant effort and sacrifice.
When it shows up
High-responsibility personalities: eldest siblings, founders, emergency workers, managers. Moments of feeling that collapse of the group or system depends on your individual effort.
Failure mode
Perceived personal responsibility far exceeds actual personal causal power. The person burns out sustaining what they wrongly believe only they can sustain. In most cases the system would survive their reduced effort; they don't test this because the felt cost is too high.
Countermeasure
Test the hypothesis: reduce effort on one load-bearing task for a week. Observe what actually collapses. Usually less than you predicted. The felt responsibility is larger than the real dependency.
Related traps
Also connected in the map4 more, locked
Credit & first seen
DiscoveredNamed after the Titan Atlas of Greek mythology; discussed in psychology and leadership coaching literature.
Also revealed
Entry #86 of 631 in The Lexicon · see the full Lexicon