Balancing ambition and wellbeing in your career
In today’s fast-paced and competitive world, career ambition is often viewed as the driving force behind professional success. Many of us feel compelled to push ourselves beyond our limits in the pursuit of our goals, working long hours, taking on challenging projects and constantly striving to climb the career ladder. However, this relentless pursuit of success can take a toll on our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. The question then arises: how can we strike a balance between ambition and personal wellbeing to create a sustainable and fulfilling career?
The perils of ambition without wellbeing
While ambition is often hailed as a driving force behind success, it can also become a double-edged sword, leading to burnout, stress, and physical exhaustion. The problem is exacerbated by societal expectations and workplace cultures that glorify overwork and prioritise results over personal care. According to a survey by Gallup, burnout affects nearly 23% of employees, with many more reporting feelings of stress and fatigue.
Burnout not only affects an individual’s health, but it can also harm professional performance and productivity. Research by the World Health Organisation found that workplace stress can lead to a 15% decrease in job performance and an increased likelihood of mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.
The impact of burnout and poor wellbeing on career longevity is significant. Employees who experience burnout leave their jobs, which is a stark reminder that neglecting wellbeing in the pursuit of career goals can be counterproductive, leading to burnout and eventual disengagement.
The value of balancing ambition with wellbeing
Striking the right balance between ambition and wellbeing is essential for long-term career success. When we make space for rest, self-care, and mental health, we are better equipped to perform at our best, maintain focus, and make more strategic decisions. Research by the American Psychological Association indicates that employees who prioritise their wellbeing are more likely to have higher job satisfaction, greater productivity, and a stronger sense of purpose in their careers.
Wellbeing in the workplace is not only important for individuals but also for businesses. Companies that implement wellness programs see an average 25% improvement in productivity and a 40% reduction in healthcare costs. For professionals, this highlights the importance of fostering a balanced approach to success and personal care.
Practical tips for balancing ambition and wellbeing
- Set Clear Boundaries
Establishing and maintaining boundaries between work and personal life is crucial for balancing ambition with wellbeing. This means setting realistic work hours, taking regular breaks, and saying no to tasks that exceed your capacity. For example, if your job requires late-night emails or weekend work, create a clear limit and stick to it. As hard as it may feel, setting boundaries will help you avoid burnout and sustain your performance in the long run.
- Prioritise Self-Care
Engaging in activities that promote mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing can help recharge your energy levels and reduce stress. This could include exercise, meditation, spending time with loved ones, or indulging in a hobby. Statistics show that employees who engage in regular exercise experience a 14% boost in job performance. So, taking time for yourself is not only good for your health but also beneficial to your career.
- Delegate and Collaborate
Ambition often leads to individuals wanting to take on everything themselves. However, learning to delegate tasks and collaborate with others is essential for achieving more without overwhelming yourself. By sharing responsibilities, you can focus on what you do best while ensuring that your work is still completed to a high standard. Studies show that delegation can lead to a 25% increase in team productivity, proving that collaboration and sharing workloads can help balance personal wellbeing with career goals.
- Track Your Progress and Reflect
Regular reflection is a powerful tool for balancing ambition with wellbeing. Set aside time to assess your career progress, evaluate how well you are managing your wellbeing, and adjust your approach if needed. Journaling, seeking feedback from colleagues, and tracking your personal and professional milestones can help you stay focused on your goals while preventing overexertion.
- Focus on the Long-Term Vision
It’s easy to become consumed by immediate challenges and deadlines, but balancing ambition with wellbeing requires a long-term perspective. Ask yourself, “What does success look like for me in the next five or ten years?” If the answer involves sustainable growth and happiness, then focusing on wellbeing today is essential. A balanced approach will allow you to enjoy success over the long term, rather than burning out and having to take a break from your career.
- Work on your communication skills
Let people know what your expectations are and vice versa for the company. Make sure you let people know how you are feeling.
The healthier approach of CEOs and Executives
Many high-achieving professionals are beginning to acknowledge the importance of wellbeing in their careers. Take Jeff Weiner, the former CEO of LinkedIn, who practices mindfulness meditation daily and emphasizes the importance of work-life balance for both himself and his employees. Weiner is known for his proactive approach to mental health, noting that taking breaks and practicing mindfulness has helped him remain focused and driven.
Similarly, Arianna Huffington, the founder of The Huffington Post, has become an advocate for wellness and has written extensively about how her own experiences with burnout led her to reevaluate her approach to work. Huffington encourages people to integrate health and wellbeing into their work culture, offering examples of successful leaders who have embraced a balanced lifestyle.
As more leaders and professionals understand the importance of integrating wellbeing into their careers, we will likely see a shift in workplace cultures that prioritise both success and self-care. In the end, true success isn’t just about reaching the top – it’s about enjoying the journey without losing yourself along the way.
