The Allure of Being a Workaholic

I recently met someone who proudly called himself a “workaholic.” At just 23 years old, he loved his job, carried significant responsibilities, and only allowed himself fun by scheduling it into his planner two nights a week. This was his version of work-life balance.

To me, this was concerning. On one hand, he displayed admirable qualities: hardworking, motivated, and dedicated to his job—traits many young professionals strive for. But when does the line between being hardworking and overworking blur?

The Workaholic Trap

Our Western culture places immense value on independence and success. For many millennials and Gen Zs, this way of thinking has become the norm, pushing individuals toward a relentless pursuit of achievement.

I used to be the same. I said “yes” to every opportunity:

Taking on extra work for my employer for recognition and to feed my ego.
Researching extra hours to support my peers.
Volunteering for “just one more” role to boost my resume.

Each “yes” felt like a step toward career success. But over time, I realized I was losing touch with the things I loved. I didn’t know what hobbies or passions I had outside of work. My life revolved entirely around professional goals, leaving no space for personal joy.

The Turning Point

When my anxiety and stress became unmanageable, I knew it was time for a change. I didn’t quit my commitments, but as each one ended, I chose not to take on anything new. Instead, I shifted my focus toward building a healthier work-life balance—one that prioritized my well-being. For me, this meant setting personal goals outside of work. I decided to try something I’d always been curious about: running.

Rediscovering Balance Through Running

Taking up running was a game-changer. It gave me a new goal that was entirely separate from my career. Since I started less than two years ago, I’ve completed various races, including a half-marathon, and I have another one coming up soon.

Running taught me that success isn’t just about professional accomplishments—it’s also about finding activities that bring you happiness and fulfillment.

The Importance of Work-Life Balance

Being motivated by your work is a fantastic way to achieve success, but it’s crucial to remember the bigger picture. A healthy work-life balance is about working to live, not living to work.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected from your personal interests, consider these steps:

Reflect on how much time you’re devoting to work versus personal passions.
Identify hobbies or activities you’ve always wanted to try.
Set boundaries to protect your time and energy.

Final Thoughts

Work-life balance isn’t about giving up on your career ambitions—it’s about making space for the things that make life meaningful. By finding joy outside of work, you can build a more balanced and fulfilling life.

Photo by Robert Bye on Unsplash