The Problem with Workaholics

ZACH DE GREGORIO, CPA
www.WolvesAndFinance.com

Last week I made a video about the importance of hard work. I thought it would be fitting to make a video this week about workaholics. The main idea is that hard work is important, but there is a healthy way and an unhealthy way to do hard work. The unhealthy way is called being a workaholic. This is one of those things they do not teach you in business school but is so important in your career. A workaholic is someone who is obsessed with their job to the exclusion of everything else in life. Being a workaholic is a neurosis similar to an obsessive-compulsive disorder. And almost all workaholics have the exact same personality pattern. The individual felt unloved as a child, and this developed in them an intense desire and drive to become successful. So they turn to work, because they think that if they are successful in their career, they will feel worthwhile as a person. Another important concept is that workaholics are almost always talented people. They are really good at their jobs, and that is why all this works. If you make accomplishments at your work, it is validating. It's just like a drug. You keep pushing the button of hard work, because it makes you feel good about yourself. I am not a psychologist, but I do work in business and I see the negative impact workaholics can have on a business. At this point people ask the question, what is wrong with being an workaholic? The problem is that, in an ironic twist, workaholics are actually less productive than they could be if they approached work in a healthy way. Some common problems you see in workaholics are perfectionism, trouble working with others, trouble delegating, inefficiency, high stress, and health problems. But the greatest tragedy is that the person who gets hurt the most is the workaholic themselves. If you push everything else out of your life besides work, you end up feeling unfulfilled, unhappy, and lonely. You might love your job, but your job will not love you back. The opposite of being a workaholic is approaching your work in a healthy, well-rounded way. Work is just one part of your life. You have career, relationships, hobbies, experiences, and time to relax and regenerate. This doesn't mean you work less hours. This just means work is part of a well-rounded experience. I love my job, and I work a lot of hours. But I am at my most productive when I am coming at work refreshed with new ideas and new experiences and I am able to bring that fresh perspective to my job.

Neither Zach De Gregorio or Wolves and Finance Inc. shall be liable for any damages related to information in this video. It is recommended you contact a CPA in your area for business advice.

Видео The Problem with Workaholics канала WolvesAndFinance