Ever find yourself sending emails at midnight or sneaking in “just one more task” while on vacation? If so, you might be flirting with workaholism (don’t worry, you’re not alone!). While being a hard worker is admirable, overdoing it can sneakily turn into burnout. So how do you know if you’re just dedicated or in full workaholic mode? Let’s find out!
What is a workaholic?
A workaholic is someone who feels a compulsive need to work excessively and struggles to disconnect from their job. Unlike those who are simply dedicated, workaholics have difficulty setting boundaries and prioritizing personal time, which can lead to stress, anxiety, and eventually, burnout. The relentless focus on work can strain relationships, reduce overall well-being, and even negatively affect productivity in the long run. While society often celebrates the hustle, unchecked workaholism can take a serious toll on both mental and physical health. Recognizing the signs early is key to avoiding these pitfalls.
Burnout: A Growing Issue for Women
Burnout from overwork is a growing concern, especially among women, who are disproportionately affected. According to a 2022 McKinsey & LeanIn.org report, 43% of women in the workforce reported feeling burned out, compared to 31% of men. The combination of professional pressures and personal responsibilities, including the “second shift” of managing household duties, often leaves women stretched thin. As women continue to break barriers in their careers, the expectation to balance work, family, and self-care without adequate support can lead to chronic stress and exhaustion. This makes burnout not just a personal issue, but a systemic challenge that urgently needs addressing.
Want to know if you’re truly a workaholic or just really, really dedicated? Take this quick self-assessment and find out!
Instructions: Rate each statement based on how frequently it applies to you.
Scale:
- 1 = Never
- 2 = Rarely
- 3 = Sometimes
- 4 = Often
- 5 = Always
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Question |
Score |
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I find it difficult to relax or take time off from work. |
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I often prioritise work over social or family engagements. |
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I check emails or work messages during personal time or vacations. |
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I feel anxious or guilty when I’m not working. |
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I regularly stay late at the office or work long hours. |
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I frequently skip meals or breaks to focus on work tasks. |
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I sacrifice sleep to finish work tasks or meet deadlines. |
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I often think about work, even when I’m not working. |
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I feel like my personal worth is tied to my professional achievements. |
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I struggle to delegate tasks, preferring to do everything myself. |
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I put off going to the toilet to do one more task. |
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Scoring:
- 10-20: Balanced – You have a healthy relationship with work. Keep it up!
- 21-30: Work-Focused – You may be leaning toward overworking. Be mindful of boundaries.
- 31-40: At Risk – You show significant signs of workaholism. Consider adjustments.
- 41-50: Workaholic – It’s time to re-evaluate your habits and focus on your well-being.
Suggestions to Break Bad Work Habits:
- Set Boundaries: Designate “off” hours and stick to them.
- Prioritise Self-Care: Schedule regular breaks, meals, and personal time.
- Delegate More: Trust others to handle tasks and avoid micromanaging.
- Unplug After Work: Avoid checking work emails or messages during personal time.
- Practice Mindfulness: Try meditation or relaxation techniques to reduce work-related anxiety.
- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on quality, not just quantity, of work.
- Seek Support: Talk to a mentor or professional to help address workaholic tendencies.
