Workaholic: 5 Signs You Are One (And How To Stop)

Introduction

Work-life balance is important for health and wellbeing. While hard work is admirable, becoming a workaholic can negatively impact relationships, health, and overall happiness. Recognizing signs of unhealthy overworking habits early and making positive changes leads to more fulfillment.

1. Working Excessively Long Hours

Consistently working extra long hours, including evenings and weekends, is an indicator of workaholism. While occasionally working late is normal, if it becomes the rule rather than the exception, it’s time to set better boundaries.

2. Unable to Relax

An inability to relax and frequent working during vacations is a red flag. Making intentional time for non-work activities and truly disconnecting from job demands is vital for mental health.

3. Obsessed With Work

Thinking about work nonstop and feeling intensely compelled to always be working are signs of an unhealthy overemphasis on productivity. Engaging in hobbies and making time for relationships should be priorities too.

4. Defining Self-Worth By Work

Basing most of your self-esteem on work achievements while struggling to feel good about other parts of life points toward workaholism. Self-worth comes from many sources, including relationships, rest, and fun.

5. Continuing Despite Adverse Effects

Disregarding the negative physical, emotional, or relational consequences of excessive work in favor of pursuing job demands reveals problematic priorities. Wellbeing depends on balancing many life domains.

FAQ

What causes someone to become a workaholic?

Common root causes include perfectionism, control issues, underlying mental health conditions, and linking self-worth solely to productivity. Recognizing these motivations helps in creating change.

What are some health risks?

Physical and mental health risks associated with workaholism include high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, anxiety, depression, and substance misuse. Making rest and relationships bigger priorities can prevent these.

How can a workaholic find more balance?

Tips include tracking work hours, establishing work-free times, taking all vacation days, compartmentalizing work tasks, identifying thought distortions about rest, and building up non-work parts of identity.

What if my boss fosters overworking?

Communicate honestly about workload capacity. Ask co-workers how they balance outside lives. Set boundaries around working hours, emails, etc. Get clarity on job expectations. Seek mentorship from non-workaholics.

When should I seek professional help?

If workaholism symptoms feel out of control despite your best efforts, cause significant stress, or negatively impact important relationships, seeking counseling can help provide tools tailored to your situation.