I’m a Workaholic!
Well, not really.
Not anymore.
I used to be though – several years ago.
And I still have relapses from time to time.
I used to be the first one in the office every day (this was before smartphones had taken over and I could check my messages as soon as I woke up – I guess I have been around a little while?!). I was there before everyone else, getting presentations ready, doing research, making plans. I was in sales (actually I still am!), so I would stay late many nights, making sure I uncovered every opportunity for revenue. I was relentless. I prided myself on being one of those that would get things done, willingly sacrificing my time and my relationship with others to accomplish whatever needed to be completed.
Fast forward to today. Now, I don’t do that anymore. I am by no means a slacker, but I have learned over the years how to be more efficient with my time, maximizing the tools and opportunities around me to get everything done. Sure I still put in extra hours when it is needed, but what I have learned is how to make the best use of the time I have devoted to work, being 100% focused on it while I’m doing it, and letting it “be there for another day” once the workday is over. Working like this I have found that I actually get more done now than I did back then when I used to put in all of those “extra” hours.
Work is not a bad thing. The Bible talks about it and how we are to work and honor God in all that we do no matter what the job may be. What is not good is working too much. Leaving the impression that you are working all the time to your co-workers. That “work” is your “master” and you are more into it than anything else.
Have you been neglecting your family, your home, your body, and your health over the last several months/years because you have been working too much? Have you been trying to get so much done at your workplace that it has taken over all aspects of your life?
A Real Christian Businessman knows that we are to give 100% effort while we are working, but at the same time we also are tasked to give 100% attention and effort to the other aspects of our life. God didn’t design us to overwork ourselves, he designed us to rest (Sabbath?) and interact with others as well outside of our vocation.
Take a moment today to think about where you are on this topic, and where you want to be. If you aren’t there right now don’t worry – you can get there! It will take some disciple and effort in order to do it but it is very possible to get there. If you are in a good place as it relates to this topic then I say “well done” and continue on your path.
Wherever you are though, be encouraged that by even thinking about this topic today puts you that much closer to being the Real Christian Businessman that you really want to be.
“It is useless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, anxiously working for food to eat; for God gives rest to his loved ones. (Ps 127:2 NLT)