Dear Dr. LeCrone:
Would you please write about problems some people have with letting go of work after they leave their office or place of business?
More specifically, the availability of technology to stay connected to work can make “driven” people like me slaves to their cell phones, e-mail and fax machines.
I am very successful financially, but there is no real distinction between my work and personal life. When a new gadget comes out linking me to my customers, I’m the first person in line to make the purchase. I check e-mail from my cell phone when not in front of my computer, and my fax machine is receiving faxes day and night.
I truly do not have a moment to do anything but work because of the “on call” nature that I have put myself in.
I know that my habits need to change and that I need help.
-A reader in Kansas
Dear reader:
It sounds like you have a case of “hyper-availability.” We live in a world where setting boundaries between work and personal life takes more and more diligence.
There are several issues that you need to address as you work toward a solution to your problem.
For example, you mention that you are driven in your career. Understanding just how much of a problem you have with this part of the picture will take some soul searching on your part and, perhaps, some assistance by an objective outsider.
What does your strong and exclusive commitment stem from? Also, how has your experience been in the past in establishing relationships and activities outside of work? Do you feel comfortable with relationships outside of work, talking about subjects to people that are not work-related and pursuing leisure time activities such as hobbies?
If you feel uncomfortable and inept when involved in non-work related activities then, perhaps, this situation should be examined. What role does your financial success play in your involvement in your work? Is the money that you are earning giving you recognition that you feel that you might not otherwise receive? Do you take time to eat a healthy diet, have good sleeping habits and exercise regularly?
An important first step in changing your lifestyle is to recognize that you may have a problem and desire help. Remember that most meaningful changes do not happen overnight so make patience one of your first priorities.
Hi.
I’m an experienced Clinical Practitioner, Administrator, Professional Writer, and Lecturer.
