What Is The Difference Between Being A Workaholic and Working Long Hours?
In our fast-paced world, it's not uncommon for many of us to put in extra hours at work to make ends meet, cover our bills, and provide for our families. The rising living costs often compel us to extend our workdays beyond the standard 40 hours. But does working long hours automatically classify someone as a workaholic? Not necessarily. Let's explore the subtle yet crucial differences between being a workaholic and simply working long hours.
The Workaholic Persona:
The Solitary Path: Workaholics often prefer flying solo. They don't merely view their colleagues as team members; they tend to see them as fierce competitors in the race for success.
The Relentless Pursuit: It's important to note that workaholics don't necessarily derive joy from their jobs. Instead, they often perceive their relentless work hours as a grim necessity. It's not a matter of choice but rather a perceived obligation.
The Overcommitment: Workaholics are notorious for overcommitting themselves. This tendency stems from their pursuit of perfection and the desire to be seen as indispensable. It's not about meeting the expectations of their superiors but rather living up to their own exceptionally high standards.
The Burnout Paradox: Despite heavy workloads, workaholics experience burnout quickly. Their physical and mental energy may dwindle, but it doesn't deter them from continuing their relentless work ethic. Paradoxically, workaholics often feel unfulfilled and perpetually yearn for more.
The Sacrificed Social Life: Workaholics frequently struggle to maintain a social life due to their perpetual work focus. Leisure activities and hobbies take a back seat as work dominates their existence.
Long Hours Vs. An Obsession
It's essential to underline the key distinction between being a workaholic and working long hours: obsession.
Individuals who merely work long hours are not obsessed with their job responsibilities. Yes, everyone has job stressors, but it doesn’t become an obsession, a compulsion, or negatively affect relationships outside of work. When they clock out, they genuinely leave work behind. Their free time is sacred, and they cherish it as an opportunity to engage in other aspects of life, fully embracing the demarcation between work and personal time. They don't perceive their entire existence as an extension of their work obligations.
How To Break the Cycle
If any of this sounds familiar, it could very well mean that you are a workaholic. Can you break the cycle, though?
Absolutely.
First, start by recognizing your limits. Take a step back and reflect. Do you feel low on energy all the time but can’t figure out why? Does it seem as if you don’t know who you are outside of work? Once you figure out how work is encroaching on your personal life, set boundaries with yourself.
If you find that you are checking your work email when you aren’t working, download an app that limits your activity or prevents you from opening up email programs.
If you are working in an office, don’t bring your work home with you. Or, if you are working remotely, try to set one designated area that is your main working space that is separate from your living spaces.
So, you don’t become hyper focused on work outside of your hours, try to work smarter and more efficiently throughout the day. That way, you can leave work knowing you accomplished as much as you could get done that day.
If you are struggling to overcome your workaholism, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about anxiety therapy or addiction therapy. Together, we can help you find better ways to balance work so that it doesn’t have to be your whole entire life. Contact us today.