“I’m An Absolute Workaholic,” said Idris Elba

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The British actor was speaking to the “Changes with Annie Macmanus” podcast in an episode that was released Monday, 2nd October when he said he is in therapy for about a year.

Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Series for Small Businesses.

Idrissa Akuna Elba OBE is a renowned English actor who graduated from the National Youth Music Theatre in London. He has gained recognition for his exceptional portrayals, such as Stringer Bell in the HBO series “The Wire,” DCI John Luther in the BBC One series “Luther,” and his remarkable portrayal of Nelson Mandela in the biographical film “Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom.”

Speaking of his career and his workaholic habit, Idris said: “I work in an industry where I am rewarded for those unhealthy habits”.  Then he added, saying that he is aware being a workaholic isn’t great for life. “Nothing that’s too extreme is good. Everything needs balance.”

What is frequently observed is the end product as a movie, and on some occasions, individuals tend to pass judgment on the actors and actresses for their on-screen roles. However, it’s important to recognize that we may not always be aware of the tremendous effort, both in terms of their craft and their mental well-being, that these artists invest to bring joy through their performances.

‘I’m not going to see my family for six months.’ And I’m in there grinding and making a new family and then leave them.”

Like most artists out there, Idris Elba successfully juggles his acting career with his passion for DJing. He has graced the stages of renowned music festivals like Glastonbury and Coachella as a DJ.

In addition to his acting and DJing endeavors, Idris has ventured into the world of filmmaking, marking his directorial debut with the feature film “Yardie.” He added another feather to his cap by creating the TV show “In the Long Run” in 2018.

Solutions for workaholics in professional and business lives

Workaholism can have negative consequences on both professional and personal lives. Finding solutions to address workaholism is important for maintaining a healthy work-life balance and overall well-being. Here are some strategies and solutions for workaholics in their professional and business lives:

1.    Set Boundaries:

  1. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Define specific work hours and stick to them as much as possible.
  2. Avoid bringing work-related tasks or thoughts home, and refrain from checking work emails during off-hours.

2.    Prioritize Self-Care:

  1. Make time for self-care activities such as exercise, relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones.
  2. Schedule regular breaks during the workday to recharge and refocus.

3.    Delegate Responsibility:

  1. Learn to delegate tasks to others. Trust your team members and colleagues to handle their responsibilities effectively.
  2. Avoid the urge to micromanage, which can contribute to workaholism.

4.    Time Management:

  1. Use time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique or the Eisenhower Matrix to prioritize tasks and manage your workload efficiently.
  2. Set realistic goals and deadlines to prevent overcommitting.

5.    Seek Support and Accountability:

  1. Share your concerns with trusted friends, family members, or a therapist. They can provide emotional support and help hold you accountable for maintaining a work-life balance.
  2. Consider joining a support group or seeking professional counseling if workaholism is significantly impacting your life.

6.    Learn to Say No:

  1. Practice saying no to additional work or commitments when you are already stretched thin. It’s okay to decline extra projects if it jeopardizes your well-being.

7.    Reflect on Values and Goals:

  1. Take time to reflect on your long-term values and life goals. Consider whether your work habits align with these values and make necessary adjustments.

8.    Use Technology Wisely:

  1. Utilize productivity apps and tools to streamline your work processes and reduce the time spent on repetitive tasks.
  2. Set device limits and use features like “Do Not Disturb” to prevent constant work-related notifications.

9.    Vacation and Time Off:

  1. Take regular vacations and use your allotted time off. Disconnect from work during these breaks to recharge and rejuvenate.
  2. Encourage your employees or colleagues to do the same and respect their time off.

10. Company Policies and Culture:

  1. Encourage a healthy work-life balance within your organization. Promote a culture that values employees’ well-being.
  2. Consider implementing policies that limit excessive overtime and encourage employees to use their vacation time.

11. Professional Help:

  1. If workaholism is significantly affecting your life and you’re unable to make changes on your own, consider seeking professional help from a therapist or counselor who specializes in addiction or work-related issues.

Remember that overcoming workaholism is a gradual process, and it may require ongoing effort and support. Finding the right balance between work and personal life is essential for overall happiness and well-being in both professional and personal realms.

Want to learn more about storytelling? Start by downloading the first chapter of The Storytelling Series for Small Businesses.

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