Working Hard Doesn’t Mean You’re a Workaholic

Have you ever been called a workaholic by friends or family? It’s a label that gets thrown around a lot, but it’s not always accurate. Just because you work hard doesn’t mean your habits are unhealthy. But it’s worth taking a moment to understand your relationship with work, because it is the first step toward a healthier, happier life.

Here are a few gentle ways to check in with yourself:

1. Why do I work? If you’re driven by passion and purpose, that’s a good sign. Workaholics, on the other hand, often feel compelled to work, even when they don’t want to.

 

2. Can I set boundaries? A healthy worker can say “enough for today.” A workaholic might feel like they can’t stop, even when they want to.

 

3. How does work make me feel? Joy and fulfillment are great indicators of balance. If work feels like a burden or something you must do, that could be a red flag.

 

4. Have I been maintaining my relationships? Are you staying connected with loved ones? Workaholics often find their relationships suffer because work takes over.

 

5. How do I feel when I’m not working? If downtime makes you anxious or guilty, or if your health is taking a hit, it might be time to reassess.

 

If you spotted signs of unhealthy work habits or would like support setting limits, and prioritizing your well-being, counselors at EAP are available to help through individual counseling or request our team based wellness workshop Rethinking Work Life Balance.

7/2/2025