Dedicated or addicted?

Whilst dedication and hard work are generally seen as positive qualities in the workplace, they can become a problematic if taken to extreme and negatively affect different aspects of an individual's life and well-being.  Over the last few months actor Idris Elba and playwright James Graham have both talked about their problems with work addiction so what is the best way to approach workaholism?

Work addiction, or workaholism, is a behavioural addiction characterised by the prioritisation of work over all else and this excessive preoccupation leads to the neglect of other areas of life such as personal relationships, socialising, and leisure activities. It can also lead to problems with physical and mental health, as well as personal relationships.

Dealing with work addiction requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the underlying issues contributing to the addiction and promotes healthier behaviours and coping strategies. These include:

1.    Recognising the signs of work addiction and acknowledging that it exists.
2.    Seeking support from a therapist, counsellor, or psychologist who specialises in addiction or work-related issues.
3.    Setting clear boundaries between work and personal life and sticking to them.
4.    Prioritising self-care by incorporating activities that promote physical and mental well-being into your daily routine.
5.    Cultivating mindfulness through practices such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques.
6.    Delegating and collaborating so colleagues to share responsibilities and workload.
7.    Setting realistic goals that are achievable both professionally and personally.
8.    Creating a healthy work-life balance by allocating time for work, leisure, relaxation, and socialising.
9.    Practicing self-compassion and treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding you’d offer a friend.
10. Seeking support from friends, family members, or support groups for encouragement and accountability.

Work addiction is detrimental because it compromises physical and mental health, strains relationships, decreases productivity, diminishes quality of life, increases the risk of burnout, and hinders the ability to enjoy life beyond work. Dealing with it takes time, effort, and commitment but, by taking proactive steps to address the underlying issues and implement healthier habits, it is possible to regain control and find greater satisfaction and fulfilment both professionally and personally.