Why Do I Work So Much?

Is this passion or obsession – sometimes I wonder….

I’m at a point in my life where I should be slowing down, taking it easy, sipping margaritas, watching sunsets, and living my dream life. Quick rewind – I’ve already done that (sailing around the world for 6 years).

I work a lot. Every day, seven days a week, the first thing I do is go to my desk, sit down, and either write, answer emails, study in a class, or do something work/office related. The other day, I sat down to ask why? Sure, I would like the income, but since the event industry has dried up like the Sahara Desert, my public speaking work isn’t producing much income. So why continue? Why not just goof around? 

My quest for achievement for myself and others is sometimes annoying, but I can’t seem to help it. I like to keep busy and find myself constantly working.

Why?

My parents clearly have something to do with this. My father was an inventor and spent long extra hours in his factory inventing all kinds of things including the method and machine for installing the hooks in your draperies.

My mother was a nurse and nutritionist. I remember about a month before she passed away, I asked what she was writing. It was a vitamin regimen for a friend of hers and she was handwriting it, having already spent days on the project.

“Why are you taking the time to do that,” I asked? Her answer was so simple. “Because I have the knowledge to help my friend.” It gave my mother purpose and fulfillment to continue helping others.

And so it goes for me. I like helping others making their dreams come true. I have also discovered my contentment comes from achievement. That makes me a coach very interested in my clients achieving success. If I’m not working towards a goal of achieving something, I feel lost in a sea of endless possibilities. I guess because I like what I do, it doesn’t seem like work.

How is it for you?