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Finding Balance: Are You Overworking at the Expense of Your Well-Being?

May 18, 2025
Growth

Written by Juli Shulem of Coach Juli, LLC

Are you truly aware of how many hours you spend working each week?

Recent insights from the book “WORK BACKWARDS” by Tim Duggan suggest that the optimal workweek should be around 30-35 hours, translating to about 28 hours of focused work. This approach is linked to improved well-being and reduced stress.

A Gallup study highlights a concerning trend: work-related stress has surged by 42% from 2009 to 2022. This raises an important question: Are we sacrificing our well-being for the sake of productivity?

Duggan proposes a balanced life divided into four key areas: work, relationships, mind, and body. Each slice deserves attention, yet many of us find that work often dominates our time.

Relationships with friends, family, and community are vital. They provide support and joy, which are essential for a fulfilling life. Engaging our minds through reading, learning, or meditation is equally important for mental health. Additionally, caring for our physical bodies through diet, exercise, and rest can significantly enhance our overall quality of life.

So, how many hours a week do you really work? Are you prioritizing balance across all areas of your life?

I invite you to reflect on this and share your thoughts. Let’s discuss how we can create a more balanced approach to our work and lives.