CONTROL & WORK ADDICTION

Work addicts are difficult to be around. They are hard to work with and for. The core form of functioning is CONTROL.

Addicts do not know the difference between getting the job done and getting the job done well.

They believe if they can control everything, they are doing the job and doing it right.

The illusion of control leads to exhaustion and burn out.

Controlling individuals try to trick their bodies into more work and prevent burnout by reading up on stress management and exercising regularly. Diets are controlled so that overworking the body can continue.

Everything is done to keep one’s life under control.

Control is costly.

It is destructive to the addict and others.

Trying to maintain control limits an addict’s vision and ability to be open to new and different ideas.

Everything must be structured, regimented and orderly.

Control addicts surround themselves with like-minded thinkers/behavers.

It makes the behavior seem more normal + familiar.

Remember, obsessive working differs greatly from having a passion for one’s work.

When one is open to what (s)he does not know, (s)he can be open to what (s)he does not know.

Controlling behavior robs one of the JOY of living.

Try letting go of the need for CONTROL in your personal and work life. Not everything has to be planned, structured and “under control.”

Realize the unexpected can be a true source of JOY.

No one is indispensable despite the illusion of CONTROL. Work addicts delude themselves into believing that their company, clients, etc. can not ‘get along’ without them.

That’s not true. And, in fact, fellow employees, clients and one’s family often resents being “controlled.”

So, let go. Try a healthier approach. Give yourself the freedom to experience the unexpected, including surprises.

©Copyright. April 2019. Linda Leier Thomason
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Linda Leier Thomason writes freelance business and travel stories, along with feature articles. Her work experiences include a Fortune 500 corporation, federal government, entrepreneurship and small business.
She specializes in undercover studies of communities wishing to attract visitors for economic impact. Read more about her background and qualifications by clicking on the “Meet Linda” tab above.