Work addiction is very common in our society today, yet it is not one that is not highly recognised.An interesting article in
March edition of The Success Report published by Success Technologies stated:
"Of all addictions receiving attention today (including alcohol, drugs, gambling and food) work addiction is perhaps least recognised and possibly most dangerous.
This is because a work addiction is a compulsion that is rewarded and reinforced by society. In particular, it's rewarded by corporations that encourage overwork as norm. The lure of work is increasing as innovative, flexible companies use and reward fewer people to get more accomplished.
Yet work addiction should not be confused with hard work; So how can you tell if you're just working hard or have crossed line into work addiction?
When work begins to hurt, you're addicted, say specialists. But how can you spot work addict among your colleagues? According to Workaholics Anonymous, these characteristics are common to compulsive over-workers:
The Characteristics of Work Addicts
They are usually in a hurry They have a strong need to control They expect perfection of themselves and others around them They have difficulty in relationships They forget birthdays and anniversaries They are unable to relax and have fun They are impatient and irritable They suffer from physical problems usually brought on because of stress, poor eating habits and lack of exercise such as headaches, fatigue, indigestion, allergies, stomach upset, ulcers, chest pain, shortness of breath, nervous tics and dizziness Addicted workers often try to do several things at once. They eat breakfast while balancing figures, return phone calls while typing on computer, or read business and trade papers while going over meeting notes. Work addicts also feel indispensable and are consequently unable to delegate.
