Work Addiction or Ambition - A Nuanced Difference

We live in a world where many of us rely on external sources of validation to fuel our sense of identity and self-worth. While it may feel easier and more tangible to do this, relying solely on external sources is both fragile and conditional. With this fragility comes a deep sense of insecurity and emptiness. And beneath it all, it also indicates that the relationship you have with yourself may need some tending to.  

We also live in a world that values drive and success in the workplace. The harder you work or the more money you make, the more praise and recognition you receive. For people already struggling with their sense identity and/or self-worth, turning to their career may feel like a convenient option. Unfortunately, however, this only perpetuates the cycle of dependence and moves you further away from connecting with your authentic identity and developing worth from within.  

Ambition and addiction defined in the context of the workplace. A nuanced difference.

Ambition can be defined as a healthy and balanced curiosity for growth while staying connected to your authentic self and aligned values. People who are ambitious are generally able to set healthy boundaries and make healthy choices for themselves. For example, despite the demands at work, setting aside time for basic self-care (e.g. eating, sleeping) or spending time with loved ones.

Addiction often occurs in the absence of connection. For individuals who lack a healthy and fulfilling relationship with themselves and/or others, turning to something like work can provide a powerful but temporary sense of relief and validation. If you notice you are consumed by working longer hours, making more money, the next promotion, and/or the prestige of your title, it might be worth getting curious about all of this. What’s feeling this addiction? How do you relate to yourself outside of the workplace? When trapped in a cycle of addiction, many other parts of your life may also become neglected. For example, it may be harder to set healthy boundaries with others and/or care for yourself.

How do you get out of the cycle? Using frameworks such as EMDR, we understand and target the reasons as to why you are experiencing what you are. Whether it’s related to deeply unworthy, not knowing who you are outside of work, or something else, there are many ways to not only understand where this addiction comes from but also move towards a place of healing, healthy balance, and sturdiness from within.

The relationship you have with yourself is the most important relationship you will have in your lifetime. Choosing to nourish this relationship will take you to places in life neglecting it never could.