Work addiction: when professional validation covers an emptiness

Finishing a project successfully or having your boss congratulate you brings a very pleasant feeling of security and worth. The trouble starts when that becomes your only way of feeling good: that's when work stops being a means and starts covering an emptiness. Here I'll show you how to recognise it and how to rebuild your balance.

When work becomes your only reward

Enjoying your work and finding satisfaction in it is healthy. The warning sign is when it's the only thing that gives you that: if we only ever choose that one reward, over time we run into trouble building a fulfilling life project, because we've let everything else fall by the wayside.

What's hiding underneath

Very often, beneath work addiction there's self-esteem that depends on performance: I'm worth something if I produce, if I'm praised, if I'm indispensable. Staying busy also serves to keep going and not feel. That's why resting can even bring on anxiety.

Signs it's getting out of hand

• ✓ You struggle to switch off; your mind stays on work outside working hours.
• ✓ Your mood depends on your achievements and the recognition you get.
• ✓ Resting brings on guilt or restlessness.
• ✓ You've gradually let relationships, hobbies or self-care slide.

Rebuilding balance

This isn't about working badly or giving up on your goals, but about making sure your worth doesn't depend on producing alone. In individual therapy we work so you can reclaim a life beyond work, look after your relationships and learn to hold yourself steady without needing constant validation. Don't forget to care for your bonds above your working life. I'm here to walk alongside you through that rebalancing.