Are You a Workaholic?

01.21.2011
HR & Safety

More than half of workers (52%) put in more than 40 hours a week, while 14% work more than 50 hours, according to a new study by CareerBuilder. Thirty-one percent bring home work at least once a week; one-in-ten bring home work at least every other day.

CareerBuilder surveyed 3,100 employees nationwide, looking at indicators of being addicted to work. For a quarter of workers, CareerBuilder found, it’s difficult to leave the office behind once they leave for the day:

  • 24% are still thinking about work when they are at home or out socially
  • 19% often dream about work
  • 16% say that most of their conversations: at work, home, or out socially: always tend to focus on work
  • Extended workdays and an unwavering focus on business while at home are taking a toll on family relationships:
  • 22% don’t have time to pursue personal interests because they are always working
  • 15% would rather be working than be at home
  • 12% say the amount of time spent on work is causing friction with their family
  • 9% are more concerned about approval from their boss than from their family

Workers report increased stress levels and health complications tied to pressures at work:

  • 51% report their workloads have increased over the last six months
  • 27% have not taken a sick or personal day in the last few years
  • 26% have experienced health issues tied to stress on the job

While a strong work ethic is valued, says CareerBuilder, a lack of work/life balance can ultimately work against an employee in the long run. CareerBuilder offers some tips for achieving a better work/life balance:

  • Set aside personal time. You schedule business meetings and events. Do the same for “me time” or “family time” and stick to the schedule.
  • Let go. Learn to delegate work-related tasks and responsibilities to others.
  • Take off the e-leash. In most cases, that email or text can wait. Turn off your electronic devices at a certain time. Take care of personal commitments before turning anything back on.

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