Is work consuming your everyday life? If so, you aren’t alone! Research suggests workaholism affects 27-30% of the general population today, and our previous write-up Addicted to Work discusses how this can only drain workers. That’s because many professionals often immerse themselves in work for all the wrong reasons, such as filling a void or looking for self-worth.
Others throw themselves into their work because of a misguided definition of success. The lessons from the podcast Enough by John Bogle emphasize how some individuals can focus too much on money that they lose sight of other important things like good character and hobbies. Here, workaholics sacrifice what actually makes life enjoyable and fulfilling without knowing that they can still hit work goals while maintaining a balanced life.
You can do this too. To overcome your workaholism, take a look at our tips.
Creating a timeline
Every worker must set a financial goal and a realistic timeframe to avoid working mindlessly for more income. Investopedia’s steps on setting financial goals details how you must track your spending first. Using your current salary as a basis, you can then estimate how much you’ll need to save for retirement after paying off loans and credit.
Only then can you set work goals. How much will an immediate promotion offer? Will this speed up the time you need to save for retirement by several years? With this timeline, a professional can better determine whether the amount of effort they are placing at work is worth it or misplaced.
Finding a hobby
If you find yourself going home only to eat, watch TV, and go to bed, it is time to find a hobby. Find something with a skill that’s productive and useful if that helps. Hobbies for workaholics in B&P’s list include cooking and gardening, which can save on expenses while also soothing the mind. Building your online profile with blogs showcasing your professional expertise can also be a worthwhile hobby.
A good hobby can spark your creativity and make you more productive at work. Understanding hobbies as necessary can be an excellent mindset for workaholics who struggle with guilt whenever they take a break.
Adjusting your workload
Technological advances mean that various automation tools and project management software can be leveraged to shorten work hours. This will allow you to accomplish a reasonable number of tasks in an eight-hour day and delegate tasks that don’t require your expertise.
Working smarter means using your time more efficiently, after all. This can even show your co-workers and supervisors that you are resourceful, practical, and capable of delivering high-quality work during regular working hours.
Unplugging your phone
Scholars also found a connection between growing workaholism rates and the digital age. The Power of Slow author Christine Louise Hohlbaum discussed an increasingly mobile workforce and continued reliance on email connectivity. 83% of respondents in a national survey checked emails after work using a smartphone or mobile device. This means that workers continue to take work with them wherever they go, whether at home or on vacation.
Today’s technology allows us to snooze our email and social media accounts during specific hours. Take advantage of this feature and unplug from technology while at home. This may seem challenging initially, but your newly found hobby can fill the time.
Overcoming workaholism is unlearning various habits and a mindset, so be patient with your progress. Your effort will pay off in a healthier life balance that will reward your work performance for the years to come.
- Unexpected Ways You Can Improve Your Focus While Working on Growing Your Business - 15 August 2023
- Overcoming Workaholism: 4 Tips for Leading a More Balanced Life - 10 December 2022