Do you think that you’re working too hard?
If so, you’re not alone. Google searches for ‘symptoms of burnout’ have increased by over 70% in the last 12 months, so there are lots of adults who feel overworked. This is especially tough for working parents and small business owners, and over time it can cause serious stress and reduce quality of life.
Here are five signs that indicate you’re working too hard.
1. Signs You’re Working Too Hard: You Can’t Stop Thinking About Work
Work is always on your mind, even when you’re relaxing or socialising. Your job is the first thing you think of when you wake up, and the last thing you think about before you fall asleep. Even on the weekends you are tempted to pull your laptop out so you can do more work, and you constantly check your emails on your phone.
Even if you love your job, this all-consuming attitude can have a seriously negative effect on your life. Remember it is important to switch off, even though this might feel difficult. If you’re not sure how to switch off, here are some tips to help.
2. Your Social Life Is Non-Existent
Your hectic work schedule has started to affect your social life. You frequently find yourself cancelling plans with friends or loved ones so that you can get more work done, and if you have children you find yourself multitasking when you are together. For instance, you might reply to emails or take work phone calls while your children are playing.
This can have a negative effect on your relationships if it continues to happen, so it is important to try to find a healthier work-life balance. This could be reducing your hours, or you could consider hiring virtual support so you can delegate less important work tasks.
3. You Feel Physically Bad
If you are overworked, your body will find ways to tell you. Some of the main physical symptoms of being overworked include headaches, weight loss or weight gain, trouble sleeping or hair loss. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, we suggest asking your doctor for advice.
4. You Feel Stressed And Angry Every Day
You feel like you are constantly in a bad mood. On the surface you may seem neutral or calm, but inside your head you feel like a bubbling pan that is about to blow. Even small things (such as traffic or spilling a drink) can make you feel angry or emotional.
5. You Are Less Productive
Even though you are working all the time, your productivity is down. You find it hard to stay focused on tasks when you are at work, and your mind is constantly jumping all over the place.
This is one of the main indicators of burnout and a sure sign you are overworking yourself. So if you feel this way it is important to take a step back so that you can relax and recharge. This can be difficult to do, but it will actually increase your productivity in the long run.
If you can relate to any of these points, we’d like to help. We have a team of highly trained virtual assistants who can help you with your workload, whether you need help with admin, bookkeeping or social media support. Pop a message over and we can come up with a plan so that you stop feeling so overworked!
