By Bizna Brand Analyst

A workaholic I am not. I don’t understand those who are, and, furthermore, I don’t understand those who brag about it. I probably have a different definition of the word.

I understand that many factors might have influenced you in turning into a workaholic such as the sheer pleasure that you may derive from your work and the monetary benefits that you may gain or the promotional avenues that you may have

However. I personally believe that it’s a diagnosis, while most self-proclaimed workaholics are just trying to describe their passion for their work. Assuming it is the latter, there are some pros and cons to being so dedicated.

• Pro: The office workaholic is the boss’s go to guy or gal. He knows he can count on you, and you take pride in knowing that he does.
• Con: You are irreplaceable. This sounds good at first, until you realize that you will never be replaced. You could work yourself right into a situation where it is almost impossible to promote you within the company because the boss needs you for that specific job you are doing.

• Pro: Your passion for your job has you abreast of all projects. You know a little bit about everything.
• Con: You know a little bit about everything, and not a whole lot about any one thing. In other words, you have too many irons in the fire; you’re a jack of all trades, master at none; a todo le tiras, y a nada le pegas. pardon my knowledge of many languages.Hehe

• Pro: Hopefully, you are doing what you love to do, and the fact that you get paid for it is just a perk. You work overtime and embrace it. You take things home. You have a certain sense of pride in your accomplishments and status. And, you are banking!
• Con: If you work for the government, the state, the military, the school system, etc., congratulations, you workaholic you. Sorry about the paycheck.

• Pro: You are the office expert. The one that people depend on in a bind; the one they can count on. People admire your work ethic.
• Con: People depend on you in a bind. Like all problems are dumped on you and that’s never a good thing

Being a workaholic is a position in the workforce that is both glorified and criticized, and it is because of the aforementioned advantages and disadvantages that it garners both reactions to the very word “workaholic.”

Work can and should be an important and fulfilling part of your life. It should not be the only important and fulfilling part of your life, however. There is a lot to be said for working hard, getting ahead, and loving what you do, but if that’s all you ever do, your life lacks the balance and richness it needs to truly be fulfilling. What’s more, getting away from work to spend time with friends, family, or even just pursuing a hobby can help you return to work more creative, rested, and happier.