Memoirs of a Workaholic: The Importance of Taking a Moment
“Why don’t you go out and have fun?”
This is a question my family asked me every time we called. My response to their question was always the same. “Eh- I have school work. I don’t have time.” Throughout my undergrad, and even my first job, I spent majority of my time studying or working. I declined friend invitations for hang-outs and shamed myself for relaxing. I did not want to fail. My life revolved so much around school and my work that I didn’t realize how much life I missed out on.
It is good to give time for your studies. It is great to really work on a something that you are dedicated to. I also understand that some people will have to work a job while attending school. However… sometimes it can get out of hand and we then become workaholics. I am here to tell you why it is important to take moments for yourself or for others, before you miss out on some of the important things in life.
What is a workaholic? A workaholic is someone who is excessively engaged in work to the point where it affects their social life and health. You often…
Sacrifice time with friends and family.
Stop personal interests.
Feel shame or anxiety when you are not working.
The effects of being a workaholic include…
Physical and mental health strain.
Sitting for long hours can lead to muscle tension, back pain and neck pain. Furthermore, neglecting the body of exercise can also lead to an unhealthy life style.
The constant pressure to do work can cause stress and anxiety.
Relationship strain.
I gave up so many moments that I could have used to spend time with friends and family.
Reduced Productivity.
Ironically, working too much is inefficient. It decreases productivity and can lead to burnout.
You can make yourself sick from overworking yourself.
The Benefits of Taking a Moment
Rest and Physical health
When you rest your body, or you put time towards exercising, it will help you feel recharged.
Mental Clarity
When you take a step back from work, you refresh yourself. Long hours of work can you leave your brain foggy. Stepping away for a moment allows you to come back refreshed.
Improved Relationships
Simply because giving time to others improves the quality of your relationships.
Set boundaries
Tell yourself “no”
Sometimes you will have to be strict with yourself and say no. Say no to working past a certain time in the day or say no to working on a certain day.
Scheduled Breaks
Set an alarm throughout the day to help alert you to take breaks.
Self-Care
Make time for other hobbies or for other forms of physical and mental well-being.
Make Achievable goals (in other words, set goals that are achievable in a healthy manner)
Set a goal to have a reasonable amount of work done at a certain time or a certain date.
Overcome the Guilt of Taking Breaks
Feelings of guilt can occur when we are not working and it is a common experience. This guilt can stem from various psychological, cultural, and personal factors.
No matter the reason, just know that breaks are necessary for success. I still struggle with guilt, but I know that we need a moment to breath. Not only does it improve our work, but taking a step back allows us to focus on other things in life- your family, friends, hobbies, and your health.
