Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C, or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct option that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 29 to 34.

The Vicious Cycle of Job Hugging

“Job Hugging” describes the phenomenon where young employees (29) ______ their positions out of fear rather than passion. Unlike workaholics, (30) ______ throw themselves into tasks willingly, job huggers hang on because they dread being judged, overlooked, or replaced. They often push themselves to take on excessive workloads, answering emails at odd hours and skipping breaks, until enthusiasm wanes. This constant overextension may seem commendable initially, but in reality, it (31) ______ energy, disrupts balance, and erodes the very satisfaction that once motivated them to pursue their careers.

Several factors drive employees to leave their jobs. New hires feel (32) ______ to prove themselves, anxious about being underestimated or labeled inexperienced. Organizational cultures that glorify overtime and constant availability reinforce this behavior, (33) ______ the expectation that showing up early and staying late signifies commitment. In competitive markets, the fear of being replaced further fuels overcommitment. Consequently, young workers gradually take on more than they can handle, hesitate to delegate, and suppress personal needs, all in an (34) ______ to keep pace and fit in with their peers.

(Adapted from Forbes)

Question 29:
A. cling to B. die for C. drop off D. wrap up