Situation · Yourself

“I work all the time and can't switch off”

What could be going on

Workaholism: A compulsion to work with guilt when stopping fits; check how rest feels.

Works constantly, can't stop: Working constantly and being unable to stop fits; check whether it's chosen or driven.

Contingent self-worth: Fits if you only feel worthwhile when productive; check what an idle afternoon does to your mood.

Manic defence: Constant activity can keep low feelings away; check what comes up when you stop.

Type A behaviour pattern: Time urgency and competitive drive fit; check impatience and hostility.

Organisational justice: Could be workplace pressure, not inner drive; check whether the job demands it.

Questions to carry

  1. The last evening I tried to stop, what pulled me back to work first?
  2. Who am I when I am not working, and how comfortable am I with that person?

Also said as

  • I feel guilty when I'm not working
  • my wife works every weekend and can't stop
  • I don't know how to relax
  • I'm a workaholic
  • holidays make me anxious
  • I can't stop working

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