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This Working Life

Has work taken over your life? Here’s what to do about it.

Nov 15, 2024
Malissa Clark, an Associate Professor of industrial-organizational psychology and author of "Never Not Working", discusses the impact of workaholism on individuals and organizations. She reveals how many equate long hours with success, while neglecting mental health. From personal stories of recovery to practical strategies like underscheduling, the conversation emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing relationships. Highlights also include recognizing the compulsive nature of workaholism and effective methods for achieving a healthier work-life balance.
25:13

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Workaholism, driven by inner pressure, negatively impacts mental health and relationships, making balance essential for well-being.
  • Recovering from workaholism involves practical strategies like underscheduling, setting boundaries, and engaging in non-work-related activities.

Deep dives

Understanding Workaholism

Workaholism is defined as a compulsion to work excessively, driven by an inner pressure that persists even in the absence of external demands. This goes beyond simply working long hours; it involves a constant mental preoccupation with work that can lead to significant anxiety and guilt. It is characterized by difficulty in stopping work, even when not required, and a compulsive need to stay busy, almost akin to addiction. Recognizing these traits is crucial for individuals to identify their tendencies and understand that workaholism can have detrimental effects on both personal health and relationships.

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