The implementation of performance measurement systems in public or private organizations as a management method diminishes the meaning of work and weakens the rules of the trade. This creates resistance from employees and work collectives. However, in some cases, figures can be important reference points for employees. The case of two policemen from a community police brigade and a contemporary music venue, resulting from two qualitative studies (observations and interviews), illustrate the link between attachment to quantitative activity measurement and the difficulty of constructing a positive and rewarding relationship with work. The comparison with other work collectives in similar organizations highlights the limits and risks of evaluating self-worth through figures.