Working hard is different than being addicted to your work. If you feel like giving 100% at work just isn’t enough, I feel you. I used to be a workaholic for many, many years. And let me tell you, there are few things worse than ending your workday feeling like you haven’t even gotten close to half of your to-do list.
Here’s my story.
Who I Used To Be
Like many others, for me, it all started in my first years at elementary school. I was raised in a demanding family where getting A’s at school was non-negotiable, and I had to push my young self to the limit every single day.
Of course, my parents aren’t really to blame. This is how they were raised and they did the best they could. I don’t consider myself a victim by any means.
When I couldn’t be the best at something, the way my parents treated me would change. I felt very vulnerable but kept pushing myself. I was very, very hard on myself for many years. Until I moved to another city.
In my first job away from home, I struggled with the very same issues. I worked a lot, didn’t get regular breaks and felt like nothing I did was ever enough. Although I had a wonderful boss, I couldn’t believe in myself. I kept burning out again and again.
What Changed Me
I believe the big shift for me happened when I made a professional ‘MadMen’ dream of mine come true and started working as a copywriter for an advertising agency. I fell in love with my job, really enjoyed my colleagues and was utterly inspired by my boss. I finally felt like I belonged somewhere. It all started out great until, one day, my desire to give the absolute best of myself at every single moment of the day started to creep in.
I wanted more and more, worked harder and harder, and my goals became bigger and bigger. Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with hustling. The only problem is that when you push yourself too hard, sooner or later your mind and body shut down. And this is exactly what happened to me.
One day, when I was sick and couldn’t get out of bed, I finally decided NOT to go to work. I had spent the last week and a half working even though I was really sick, trying not to “miss out” on any work that seemed important. But my body was pretty clear this time. I needed a break.
How I Can Help You
Workaholism is probably one of the most common diseases of our generation. We don’t consider it a disease, though, and instead, praise entrepreneurs and hustlers for their relentless drive and 18-hour workdays. The truth is that if you don’t have work-life balance, it’s inevitable to burn out at some point. Or you have to draw the line and compromise on everything else, including your family, parents, friends, and whatever personal life you have left.
If you struggle with work-related anxiety, constantly push yourself to the limit or simply need some balance in your life, check out my career ninja package. You can excel at work while having enough free time to enjoy your life. When I set out to change my workaholic habits, my coach helped me make that change happen.
Now, it’s my turn to give back to the world.
Love,
