Few of us want to overwork. Even when our jobs feel meaningful, we’d prefer to work to live, not live to work. We benefit from also devoting time to other interests and hobbies, family and friends, leisure, and learning not related to our professions. Those are meaningful to us too.
Resisting the Pressure to Overwork
Five strategies to help you cut back.
May 26, 2022
Summary.
We all face internal and external pressures to overwork. But to be fulfilled in your life and career, you need to push back against those forces. First, understand that overwork is not necessary for professional success; if you find yourself triggered by others who believe it is, remind yourself of the truth with positive self-talk. Second, be clear on your values and follow them. Third, focus not on hustling to get ahead but on deeper goals and your craft. Fourth, find positive role models who have secured their achievement without overworking. And, finally, learn to ignore unreasonable requests, even when they come from the boss.
New!
HBR Learning
Time Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Time Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Make smarter, more purposeful choices about how you spend your day.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
Time Management Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Time Management. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Make smarter, more purposeful choices about how you spend your day.