Do you think working extra hours makes you more successful? These 5 facts will change your mind

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Many people think that working overtime will make them appear more committed and advance their careers faster. But the reality is that working too much can lead to more stress, fatigue, and health problems. Studies show that overtime often reduces productivity and can make you feel like you’re not accomplishing anything, no matter how hard you try. What’s more, there’s often no direct financial reward, while your personal life and health suffer. Self-care and work-life balance are worth more than any extra hours of work.

Here are 5 damage you're doing to yourself by working long hours for long periods of time:

1. Productivity drops

The more you work, the less effective you become. Fatigue and stress make overwork less productive, so your body needs rest to function properly.

2. Mental health suffers

Working overtime can lower self-confidence and lead to stress, depression, and mental fatigue. Trying to appear irreplaceable often does more harm than good.

3. You don't make more money.

You may think that extra hours bring rewards, but you often end up spending more on food, transportation, or childcare. In many cases, the pay remains the same as for regular hours.

4. Personal life is damaged

Friends, family, and self-care often suffer when you work too much. Overwork creates an uneven routine, pushing important personal matters to the back burner.

5. Risk to physical health

Excessive hours increase the risk of accidents and serious health problems, from fatigue to mistakes that can be dangerous. The brain and body do not function best when they are overworked.

Therefore, success is not measured by overtime. Productivity, health, and time for yourself are more valuable than any attempt to appear overworked. Self-care is not a luxury, it's a necessity! :)