Workaholic: “It was as exhilarating as dope.”
updated the 14 July 2015 à 18:32Are you also a workaholic? Read the compelling story of Gabrielle, 45 years old, committed freelance graphic designer, married with two children.
“I was in a spiral without realising it. During the day, night, weekend, I was attached to my computer. I responded immediately to customer requests; regarding everything as urgent. I had the impression that if I didn’t do it immediately, I would lose my clients. A perfectionist, I spent hours polishing documents. Influenced by my two male colleagues, I worked late. Unhappy in my relationship, I took refuge in my work, despite my husband’s reproaches. It was as exhilarating as dope. I didn’t even feel tired, I was a “warrior”. But the death of my father destroyed this balance: he, who always postponed his personal projects, died before realising them. I decided to slow down and enjoy the present. Now, I take time to have lunch, attend Pilates classes or to get my nails done. When I go home, I switch off my computer to be with my daughters. On the weekend, I don’t respond to emails. By taking this time away from work, I find I am more creative and organised. I impose my deadlines on my customers without freaking out. By saying no to them, I feel more respected. Financially, I win as much as before, even more, because, by being less a perfectionist, I spend less time on each file. I no longer fight to impose my point of view and if someone doesn’t want to work with me, it doesn’t matter. I trust in life and, as if by chance, things come to me. In fact, since the death of my father, I have become more accepting. I feel light, serene. I exist not only through my job; it no longer defines me.”
Marie Le Marois
Read more testimonies from our ‘Are you a workaholic?’ report:
Elodie: “I thought suicide was the only exit”
Brigitte: “Today, I maintain my involvement, but without forgetting myself.”
