Over the years, the idea of work has evolved into something more than just a means of earning a livelihood; it has transformed into a widespread philosophy that permeates various aspects of life, including people’s identity. This phenomenon of work taking over people’s lives is commonly referred to as “workism,” which entails the prioritization of work above all else, often leading individuals to define their self-worth and identity primarily through their professional endeavors.
In the current era, many people seem to define themselves by their occupation, deriving a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and social status from their professional roles. Undoubtedly, work has a multifaceted nature and has implications for both individuals and society.
Workism can be traced back to the Industrial Revolution, a period marked by significant societal changes, including the rise of capitalism and the emergence of the modern workforce. With the advent of industrialization, work became central to economic prosperity, and individuals increasingly identified themselves through their occupations. Over time, this emphasis on work as a means of self-expression and fulfillment has only intensified, fueled by factors such as technological advancements, globalization, and cultural shifts.
The manifestations of workism are several. At the individual level, workism is characterized by the relentless pursuit of professional success and the blurring of boundaries between work and personal life. Individuals often prioritize career advancement over other aspects of life, sacrificing leisure, relationships, and personal well-being in the process. Moreover, the glorification of “hustle culture” perpetuates the belief that constant productivity is the key to fulfillment, leading to burnout and mental health issues among workers.
On a societal level, workism is reflected in the valorization of productivity and economic growth above all else. Policies and social norms prioritize work over leisure time, perpetuating a culture of overwork and stress. Furthermore, the stigmatization of unemployment or underemployment further reinforces the notion that one’s worth is intrinsically tied to their professional success. This societal pressure to constantly excel in the workplace creates a vicious cycle wherein individuals feel compelled to devote more time and energy to work.
This emphasis on prioritizing work over other aspects of life (e.g. relationships) has merged work and identity. The connection between work and identity is not something new. It has historical roots, dating back to ancient civilizations, where one’s occupation often determined social status and prestige. With the advent of modernity, work also became a source of personal fulfillment and social validation.
The intertwining of work and identity is evident in various aspects of contemporary society. Many individuals derive a sense of pride and self-worth from their professional achievements, often equating success in the workplace with personal worthiness. Occupational roles often come with societal expectations and stereotypes, shaping how individuals perceive themselves and are perceived by others.
Furthermore, advancements in technology and globalization have expanded the scope of professional identities, allowing individuals to cultivate online personas and personal brands based on their work. Social media platforms, provide a platform for individuals to showcase their professional accomplishments and network with like-minded peers, further blurring the boundaries between work and personal identity.
For some individuals, work becomes all-consuming, leading to a neglect of other aspects of life such as relationships or hobbies. Moreover, the emphasis on work as identity can perpetuate inequality and social stratification. Those in high-status professions may enjoy greater opportunities for advancement and social recognition, while others face barriers to entry and limited mobility.
Undoubtedly, the intertwining of work and identity reflects the complex interplay between individual aspirations, societal norms, and economic structures. While work is with no doubt an integral aspect of human life, the elevation of work to the status of ‘religion’ risks overshadowing other dimensions of human existence. Addressing workism requires a fundamental reevaluation of personal values and norms, emphasizing the importance of balance, purpose, and fulfillment beyond the confines of the workplace.
References
Thompson, D. (2019). Workism is making Americans miserable. The Atlantic, 24.
