SOLJ: Work Addiction and the Need to Stop

“When you live in an environment that's out of control, you latch onto something that will make you feel like you're stabilized.”

— Brian Robinson

Working in a world that values and reveres constant work has led society to increased numbers of burnout and workaholism. But is workaholism really “a thing”? Rest is an essential part of life, and when we don’t give ourselves the opportunity to rest, we face avoidable obstacles.

In this episode, Dr. Elliott Malamet interviews guest Brian Robinson about work addiction, how people become workaholics, how society supports workaholism, and what to do if you or someone you love is showing signs of work addiction. 

Tune in to learn what signs and signals may be a key indicator of workaholism, why it’s important to support friends and family that may be addicted to work, and how to recognize that work has become a substitute for life. 

This‌ ‌episode discusses:‌ ‌

✔   Where work addiction and hustle culture come from, and how it permeates our society

✔   Overcoming the need for control, plus actionable steps you can take to speak to your workaholic friend or family member

✔   The challenges of adjusting to retired life after decades of endless working hours

 ‌  

Highlights:‌ ‌

00:54  Elliott’s introduction  

02:06  Defining hustle culture and work addiction

06:33  The need for control 

08:19  The hustle “badge of honor” 

10:00  Cultural norms of workaholism

13:57  Internal Family Systems Therapy  

18:11  Behavioral clues of work addiction 

21:52  Where the term “Hustle Culture” comes from  

24:29  Adjusting to retired life  

27:34  Society’s part in supporting workaholism  

31:30  The right to not be addressed

37:11  How to talk to a workaholic in your life

Links:‌ ‌ 

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Shalom!