Workaholism is defined as the compulsion to work excessively hard and long hours.
Entrepreneurs can turn into workaholics. In the early phases of starting a business, picking up some workaholic-type tendencies is nearly unavoidable. The true test comes once things have settled.
When the business is stable, working non-stop is no longer a necessity.
Running your own business can often feel like all the pressure is on you to make it a success. Entrepreneurs are far more likely to take work home at the end of the day, missing out on the work-life balance a traditional worker may feel after a day on the job.
This Fast Company article explains what drives workaholics to overwork.
The pressure of feeling that if you do less than your best you will no longer have an income is what drives many entrepreneurs into workaholism.
A few warning signs include an inability to detach from work, even when on vacation or outside of the office. Another sign is the constant working from home and never taking any time off work at all. These are just a couple of things to watch out for as your small business develops.
In order to combat this struggle, it is important to set boundaries. Some boundaries can be as simple as promising to not check emails at dinner or never working on a certain day of the week.
Another useful suggestion is finding a hobby outside of the business, such as going to the gym, joining a club, or volunteering in the community. Picking a physical hobby could be the best option, as entrepreneurs are more likely to ignore their health and well-being.
Mental health is at the forefront of topics within the workplace in today’s climate. It is important that you not only look out for the health of your employees, but for yourself as well.
Workaholism can be a slippery slope to other addictive behaviors or burnout, but if you stay vigilant and aware, it can be avoided.
