Work often spills over into our personal lives. This phenomenon, known as workaholism, blurs the lines between professional and personal boundaries. Despite not being widely recognized as a mental health disorder, workaholism’s impacts on health, productivity, and overall well-being cannot be underestimated.
What is Workaholism?
The term “workaholic” was introduced by psychologist Wayne Oates in 1971. It refers to a compulsive need to work incessantly, often at the expense of other aspects of life. According to a 2016 study, about 7.8% of Americans could be classified as workaholics, indicating the widespread prevalence of the issue.
The perception of workaholism varies across cultures. In Japan, a country known for its stringent work culture, the term “Karōshi” translates to death by overwork. Conversely, countries like the Netherlands, Denmark, and Norway, reported the lowest rates of workaholism, according to the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).
Contrary to popular belief, workaholics may be less productive than their peers. Their obsession can lead to mistakes and burnout, negating the benefits of extra hours worked. Workaholism is also linked to numerous health problems, including sleep disorders, weight gain, heart disease, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Workaholism doesn’t only affect individual health and productivity. It also impacts personal relationships and work-life balance. Workaholics often struggle to disconnect from work, even during vacations. They are usually preoccupied with work-related thoughts, leading to an imbalance in their work-life blend. This constant preoccupation with work can strain personal relationships and lead to feelings of isolation.
Workaholism exists across all jobs, from high-pressure corporate roles to creative and academic positions. High-profile figures like Elon Musk and Marissa Mayer have been identified as workaholics, fueling the ongoing debate on whether workaholism should be viewed as a badge of honor or a health risk.
Workaholism is a multifaceted issue with significant implications for our mental and physical health, productivity, and overall well-being. As remote working becomes more prevalent, maintaining boundaries between work and personal life becomes even more critical. A healthy work-life balance is not just beneficial; it’s essential to our overall well-being. Despite differing personal and cultural beliefs about work and productivity, health and personal relationships should remain a priority.
How to Break Free from Workaholism
If you’re starting to feel like your work is taking over your life, here are some steps to take back control:
- Set Work Hours and Stick to Them
Decide when your workday starts and ends—and don’t let it spill over. Communicate these hours to your team and clients so they know when you’re available. - Work Smarter, Not Harder
Focus on the tasks that truly move the needle. Use tools to prioritize your workload and avoid spending hours on things that don’t have a big impact. - Learn to Delegate
You don’t have to do everything yourself. Share the workload with your team to avoid feeling overwhelmed. - Make Time for Yourself
Schedule personal time as seriously as you schedule meetings. Whether it’s working out, cooking, or spending time with loved ones, find activities that help you unwind and recharge. - Turn Off Notifications
Don’t let your phone dictate your time. Turn off work notifications after hours to help your brain disconnect. - Talk to Someone
If you’re struggling to find balance, a mental health professional can offer guidance. Support groups like Workaholics Anonymous can also be helpful.
Why It’s Worth It
Finding balance doesn’t mean you care less about your work. It means you care enough to show up as your best self every day. By taking steps to set boundaries, you’ll not only feel healthier and happier but also be more focused and effective when you’re working.
It’s okay to hustle when needed, but remember—your job is just one part of your life. Make room for the other parts too. They’re what keep you grounded and give your work meaning.
