Are you a workaholic? Do you have a healthy relationship with your job? There has been considerable discussion about the importance of work-life balance in recent years. There has also been a shift in discussion about employee and employer expectations when it comes to how much people work.
Our Legal recruiters in Toronto decided to look into this topic. They discovered an interesting study by HP that found most people have an unhealthy relationship with work. Below we talk about the study findings and list some signs you may have an unhealthy relationship with work.
Study Finds Majority of People Worldwide Have an Unhealthy Relationship with Work
According to a 2023 HP study on work relationships, the majority of workers globally have unhealthy relationships with work.
The research examined over 50 facets of individuals’ connections with their jobs, encompassing the significance of work in their lives, their skills, capabilities, tools and workplace environments, as well as their anticipations regarding leadership. Additionally, the investigation delved into how work influences employee well-being, productivity, engagement, and organizational culture.
The result: Only 27% of knowledge workers currently have a healthy relationship with work
The study found that when employees have a poor relationship with work, the company and the employee both suffer:
- 34% of workers report being less productive. 39% are more disengaged and 38% have a greater feeling of disconnection
- More than 71% consider leaving the company. When they’re not happy at all, that number rises to 91%.
- 55% struggle with their self-worth and mental well-being,
- 45% note their relationships with friends and family suffer
- 59% are too drained to pursue their passions.
- 62% of employees have trouble with maintaining healthy eating, working out and getting sufficient sleep.
- 83% of knowledge workers today are willing to earn less to be happier at work
Top Signs You Have An Unhealthy Relationship With Work
Do you have an unhealthy relationship with work? Here are some signs you might:
- Obsessive Thoughts About Work: Constantly thinking about work, even during personal time, to the detriment of other activities and relationships.
- Neglecting Personal Life: Frequently putting work ahead of personal relationships, family, and leisure activities.
- Poor Work-Life Balance: Consistently working long hours, neglecting self-care, and failing to set boundaries between work and personal life.
- Physical and Mental Health Issues: Experiencing stress-related physical symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, or anxiety. Suffering from burnout, depression, or anxiety due to work-related pressures.
- Neglecting Hobbies and Interests: Losing interest in hobbies, sports, and activities that were once enjoyable due to work demands.
- Neglecting Self-Care: Failing to prioritize exercise, nutrition, relaxation, and regular breaks from work.
- Constantly Checking Work Emails and Messages: Inability to disconnect from work, even during vacations or off-hours, and feeling compelled to check emails and messages.
- Neglecting Social Relationships: Isolating oneself from friends and social circles, as work takes precedence over socializing.
- Perfectionism and Overworking: Striving for perfection in all work tasks, leads to overworking and setting unrealistic expectations for yourself.
- Feeling Unfulfilled and Stressed: Experiencing a constant sense of stress, dissatisfaction, and feeling unfulfilled despite achieving professional success.
If you recognize several of these signs in your behaviour or in someone you know, it may be an indication of an unhealthy relationship with work. It’s essential to seek a healthy work-life balance, set boundaries, and prioritize self-care to maintain your well-being and overall life satisfaction.
More About Work Balance From Our Legal Recruiters In Toronto
How to Ask About Work-Life Balance in an Interview Without Appearing Lazy
Can AI Help With Burnout and Work-Life Balance?
Are “Lazy Girl Jobs” a New Trend or Just Work-Life Balance Rebranded?
