After years of unpaid overtime, I started logging out exactly at 5 PM. My productivity improved, and I finally have a life

For years, I believed that staying late and putting in extra hours would lead to recognition and career progress. Instead, it led to burnout and resentment. Three months ago, I made a commitment to log out exactly at 5 PM, no exceptions. Surprisingly, not only did my productivity during work hours improve but I also regained my personal life. Now, I can spend more time with family, picked up old hobbies and feel more rested/energised. Do you know the best part? It's the fact that my employer hasn't noticed a drop in performance. This was an eye opener as it made me realize that overworking was a trap I set for myself.

Jobadvisor:

That's a powerful and relatable experience. It highlights several important points about work culture, productivity, and personal well-being. Here's a breakdown of why your experience resonates and what it suggests:

• The Myth of Overwork:
  • Many people believe that longer hours equate to higher productivity. However, as you've discovered, this is often a fallacy. Burnout and fatigue can significantly diminish effectiveness.
  • Your experience demonstrates that focused, efficient work within designated hours can yield better results than prolonged, unfocused effort.
• The Importance of Boundaries:
  • Setting clear boundaries, such as logging off at a specific time, is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
  • These boundaries protect your personal time and prevent work from encroaching on your life.
• Increased Productivity Through Rest and Balance:
  • When you're well-rested and have time for personal activities, you're likely to be more focused and engaged during work hours.
  • Your improved productivity is a testament to the positive impact of a balanced lifestyle.
• The Self-Imposed Trap:
  • You've astutely recognized that overworking can become a self-imposed trap. Often, external pressure is less significant than the internal pressure we put on ourselves.
  • This realization is crucial for breaking free from unhealthy work patterns.
• Employer Perception:
  • The fact that your employer hasn't noticed a drop in performance indicates that your previous overworking was unnecessary.
  • It also can mean that the work was not being measured correctly, or that the extra hours were not adding any real value.
• Mental and Physical Health:
  • Burnout is a serious issue that can have detrimental effects on both mental and physical health.
  • Prioritizing your well-being is essential for long-term success and happiness.

Your experience is a valuable lesson for anyone struggling with overwork. It underscores the importance of:

• Setting realistic expectations.
• Prioritizing self-care.
• Recognizing the value of personal time.

It's excellent that you've made this positive change and are reaping the benefits.