The Unexpected Adventure
Dear readers, I think I have become a workaholic.
For as long as I can remember, I have watched the people in my life dedicate untold amounts of time and energy to the things they are passionate about.
It was not surprising through my school days to see my dad working at his desk when I woke up and often, sitting there when I went back to sleep.
I have already told you about sleeping under my mom’s desk in the wee hours of the morning while she worked hard to get the paper to press, only to spend the evening at a local event or government meeting.
So, I guess no one should really be surprised that I turned out to be a workaholic.
It started small, I think. Balancing schoolwork, extracurricular activities (proud band “nerd” here) and a social life, while making sure I was in bed no later than 9 p.m. most nights (sleep is my love language).
After my freshman year in college, I guess you could say my multitasking ways found me diving right into the deep end. Marriage, living on our own in a new place, college classes, a dog and a part time job to help pay the bills quickly turned to advocating and caregiving for my husband (disabled Army veteran), another dog, homeownership, graduation and diagnosis of narcolepsy.
Two years later, I guess I thought I had a handle on all of that and we welcomed our son.
Oh, man … a joy like never before and a challenge like never before.
These days, you can find me working sun up to sun down, occasionally taking a couple of hours to “adult” as I say. I have what my husband has dubbed a “never ending to-do list.” Not that I don’t complete tasks often, it’s just that there is always another one waiting.
When I’m not working, I am taking my son to therapies and doctor appointments, helping my husband stay on track with his medical needs, playing games with my son or sleeping.
The dictionary defines a workaholic as “a person who compulsively works hard and long hours.” Looking closer, sources indicate that it is not about being a hard worker, but more about the ability to switch off after work.
They say the first step to altering the course is recognizing and admitting the issue, which is how I started out this column.
That leaves me to wonder what the next step is … If you know, send it my way. Maybe I can add it to my list.
Writer’s note: In all seriousness, the research I found when looking into this struggle is that this is becoming an all-too-common issue that continues to affect more and more people. If you or someone you know if struggling with this or any other addiction, help is available. Contact your doctor or visit www.samhsa.gov for more information.
Kontnier is the publisher of the Hays Free Press/News Dispatch. She can be reached at [email protected].
