By Peter Kamuri
How many hours do you work in a day? Do you often spend several hours at the office and still carry work home to work on late into the night? Do you find yourself with no time for hobbies?
If the answer to these questions is yes, then there is a possibility you are addicted to work. If you find yourself overworking, not necessarily because you like what you are doing, but because you think you have to, then you have an addiction.
Negative consequences
If such behaviour is not controlled, it can have negative consequences. You can easily suffer depression or burnout, significantly impairing the way you work.
In some cases, your relationship with family and friends may suffer because you have little to no time left for them.
What are some of the early indicators that you could be getting addicted to work?
The first sign is that you find yourself dedicating most of your time to work-related issues; you want to do everything and get credit for it.
Also you find your list of friends and hobbies dwindling by the day. If you try to think of a close friend, either none comes to mind, or you do not remember the last time you met with him or her.
Studies reveal that people who are addicted to their work experience strained marital relationships. Couples need to spend enough quality time together if their relationship is to flourish.
The good news is that you can easily forestall falling into this type of addiction. The first thing you need to do is make time for your family and friends, without allowing any work-related interruptions.
Delegate
Learn how to delegate, and when possible, take time off. Do not skip your annual leave or work through holidays if you can avoid it. It is important to take a break where you can just relax.
Make sure your workday ends when you leave office. Work out schedules that are more manageable with your boss. Consider using a different telephone line for the office and for private use. Revive old relationships and let your friends know that you are working on being more available.
Think about what matters most to you, both personally and professionally. If you find making an adjustment too difficult, seek professional counsel.
