As a high performer, you work hard.
Sometimes it’s difficult to discern whether you’re passionate about what you are doing or if you’re just addicted to work.
Do you really love what you do or are you using passion to rationalize the sleep-deprived hours you spend away from friends and family?
This exact question popped into my mind after reading the chapter on being a workaholic in Chip Conley‘s insightful book, Emotional Equations. His thoughts on this topic compelled me to reach out to him for guidance and his response was enlightening. It was so helpful that I refer to it every month to keep myself in check.
Here is his response:
“…workaholism leads to obsessive behavior that has more to do with proving yourself than improving yourself. A workaholic – who is in the midst of their compulsion – can feel and show anger when being “called” on their behavior. And, they have a very difficult time giving attention to anything else. Lastly, when a workaholic is in an emotionally challenged place, they almost always turn to work.
Someone living their calling is using who they are and their talents to channel something that feels bigger than themselves. They’re improving themselves, not just proving themselves. Yes, they may be obsessive about what they love doing, but when put in a position in which they have to focus on something else, they don’t usually feel anger. And, someone living their calling usually can enjoy other diversions as opposed to feeling frustrated or angry.”
Take a look back at your work this week – are you proving yourself or improving yourself?
Photo by Aravindan Ganesan
