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 the 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 the line into work addiction?

When work begins to hurt, you're addicted, say specialists. But how can you spot the 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 the computer, or read the business and trade papers while going over meeting notes. Work addicts also feel indispensable and are consequently unable to delegate. Yet as bad as work addiction can get, there is hope for the work addict.

Steps toward personal recovery

• Take a time management course.
• Reorganise your life so that work becomes proportionate to family, friends and self. Switch your focus to relaxation, exercise, nutrition and spiritual development.
• Slow your work pace and also learn to eat, talk, walk and drive slower.
• Learn to relax through massage or relaxation exercises.
• Work in moderation and keep regular hours.
• Set boundaries between work and personal life.
• Strengthen family ties through shared activities and rituals.
• Renew old acquaintances and join social clubs that don't include co-workers.
• Learn to live in the present, truly listen to others and as trite as it may sound, "stop and smell the roses."

The Final Word

Work should be enjoyable and satisfying, not just a means to earn a living. However, when it gets to the point where it affects your health and you find you have little time for your personal life, then it's time to take action and do something about it.
Whatever you do, do something now! Take that first step.

About The Author
Lorraine specialises in working with businesspeople showing them how to dramatically boost their productivity, reduce the stress and the mess in their lives and have more time for enjoying their life. www.office-organiser.com.au lorraine@office-organiser.com.au