that is not highly recognised.
An interesting article in the March edition of The Success Report
published by Success Technologies stated:
"Of all the addictions receiving attention today (including alcohol,
drugs, gambling and food) work addiction is perhaps the least
recognised and possibly the most dangerous.
This is because a work addiction is a compulsion that is rewarded and
reinforced by society. In particular, it's rewarded by corporations
that encourage overwork as the norm. The lure of work is increasing as
innovative, flexible companies use and reward fewer people to get more
accomplished.
Yet work addiction should not be confused with hard work; So how can
you tell if you're just working hard or have crossed the line into
work addiction?
When work begins to hurt, you're addicted, say specialists. But how
can you spot the work addict among your colleagues? According to
Workaholics Anonymous, these characteristics are common to compulsive
over-workers:
The Characteristics of Work Addicts
They are usually in a hurry
They have a strong need to control
They expect perfection of themselves and others around them
They have difficulty in relationships
They forget birthdays and anniversaries
They are unable to relax and have fun
They are impatient and irritable
They suffer from physical problems usually brought on because of
stress, poor eating habits and lack of exercise such as headaches,
fatigue, indigestion, allergies, stomach upset, ulcers, chest pain,
shortness of breath, nervous tics and dizziness
Addicted workers often try to do several things at once. They eat
breakfast while balancing figures, return phone calls while typing on
the computer, or read the business and trade papers while going over
meeting notes. Work addicts also feel indispensable and are
consequently unable to delegate.
Yet as bad as work addiction can get, there is hope for the work addict:
Steps toward personal recovery
Take a time management course.
Reorganise your life so that work becomes proportionate to family,
friends and self. Switch your focus to relaxation, exercise, nutrition
and spiritual development.
Slow your work pace and also learn to eat, talk, walk and drive slower.
Learn to relax through massage or relaxation exercises.
Work in moderation and keep regular hours.
Set boundaries between work and personal life.
Strengthen family ties through shared activities and rituals.
Renew old acquaintances and join social clubs that don't include co-workers.
Learn to live in the present, truly listen to others and as trite as
it may sound stop and smell the roses. "
The Final Word
Work should be enjoyable and satisfying, not just a means to earn a
living. However, when it gets to the point where it affects your
health and you find you have little time for your personal life, then
it's time to take action and do something about it. If you are serious
about moving forward much quicker than you would on your own, call us
on (03) 9532 5497 to see how personal coaching will dramatically
enhance your life.
Whatever you do, do something now! Take that first step
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