This is a great question posed by HBR and a great time of the year to answer it. We all only have so much margin and if you exceed your capacity at work, then you will have nothing left for the people who matter most. Take 10 minutes to read and the rest of the year to apply:
“We all have intense periods at work where multiple deadlines converge, an important deal is closing, or a busy season lasts for a few months. During these times, we may work more intensely or longer hours, but we know that the situation is temporary, and we are able to keep work in perspective. Conversely, approximately 10% of Americans are considered workaholics, defined as having a “stable tendency to compulsively and excessively work.” Whether you are in the midst of a temporary work crunch, or if working all the time is your version of “normal,” there are some key signs that you are pushing yourself too hard.” These include: