Working Yourself to Death? Slow Down With These Tips!
By Genevieve Cunningham
Our society is definitely focused on work. When we meet someone new, it's one of the first questions that we ask: What do you do? We value work, and that can be a good thing. But for many, the importance of working has been pushed over the edge. Working is no longer just important -- it's all they do. They're workaholics, and breaking that addiction is not easy. But as good as work can be, being a workaholic is really bad for overall health. If you or someone you love is stuck in a work-work-work cycle, take a look at these tips for slowing down and finding a little balance.
Schedule Breaks
If you don't do a good job of taking random breaks, schedule them into your day. Literally write it down on your schedule. Mid-morning, take a break. Don't work through lunch. Mid-afternoon, take another break. This can be hard for workaholics. They always think they're fine without breaks. But eventually, this catches up with them. If you can't make it happen, write it down, tell a coworker or friend to help you stay at it, and make regular breaks a part of your normal day.
Live Within Your Means
Sometimes we become workaholics because we get ourselves into financial trouble. We have so much debt or so many things to pay for, we literally have to work all the time. If this is you, try your best to live within your means. Work to get out of debt. Don't worry about having the brand new car as long as yours is reliable. Living within your means takes time to learn, but if you can do it, you won't have to work so much, and you may even enjoy the little bit of freedom that it brings.
Get Professional Help
Workaholics have an addiction. They're addicted to being busy. If they stop working, they feel anxious and guilty. While some people are able to overcome it, many need outside help. If this is you, don't be afraid to reach out to a professional. There are counselors who specialize in workaholics. Get help so that you can live a balanced, happy, and healthy life.
Work is important. And if you're going to work, you want to work hard. But working hard and working incessantly are two very different things. Work hard, but don't let yourself become a workaholic. Use these tips to find a little balance, and live the rest of your life working hard, playing hard, and enjoying your life.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Ventura, Calif.