Who is responsible for my workaholism: me, my parents or my workplace? The likelihood is that it is a mixture of all three

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the nature of workaholism, the factors driving it and its impact on executives and their companies.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on the author’s first-hand experience of working in this area.

Findings

It identifies types of workaholism among managers. Explains that the positive side is individuals who are self-reliant, well-organized, have high standards and feel fulfillment when work is completed to a high standard and on time. The negative side is feelings of anxiety and physical and mental exhaustion, being restless and mentally preoccupied with work.

Practical implications

It highlights the roles of parental upbringing, personal values and workplace culture and practices as drivers of workaholism. Being workaholic may lead to a rewarding career but can harm health and work-life balance.

Social implications

It suggests that, by understanding the nature of workaholism, individuals and organizations can take corrective measures.

Originality/value

It takes a psychological approach to understanding and managing workaholism.

Citation

Srivastava, M. (2014), "Who is responsible for my workaholism: me, my parents or my workplace? The likelihood is that it is a mixture of all three", Human Resource Management International Digest, Vol. 22 No. 5, pp. 26-28. https://doi.org/10.1108/HRMID-07-2014-0100