Struggles with Sleep

After such long workdays, the first challenge I faced was insomnia. Upon returning home, I would have a light meal, take a shower, and try to sleep, but my mind remained alert. Engaging in intense cognitive work for twelve hours left my brain in a heightened state of activity, making it difficult to wind down.

Even though I didn't completely lose the ability to sleep, falling asleep was a struggle, often keeping me awake until 1:00 or 2:00 AM. I would also wake up around 4:00 AM, unable to achieve deep sleep, constantly preoccupied with work thoughts.

The Challenge of Disconnecting

It's not uncommon for someone to say, "You just need to learn how to switch off," but transitioning from work mode to relaxation mode was incredibly challenging. My mind was constantly racing with thoughts about work, from morning until night, and I found myself unable to take a break.

As I lay in bed, my mind would spin with thoughts like, "What tasks do I have for tomorrow?" and "How will I manage them?" This incessant mental activity prevented any chance of rest.

Diminished Enjoyment of Free Time

Due to my constant exposure to screens, I often felt fatigued. Consequently, I lacked the energy to enjoy my days off and would frequently find myself napping instead. However, even during my days off, my mind was still occupied with work-related thoughts.

Nutritional Issues and Weight Changes

The stress of long hours also affected my appetite. I often experienced stomach discomfort after meals, which contributed to weight loss. While some may gain weight during stressful times, I found myself getting thinner. Although being overweight might be healthier for some, my weakened stomach made it difficult to maintain a stable weight.

The Toll on Longevity

I often wondered if my lifestyle was shortening my life expectancy, perhaps by a year or so. Despite the exhaustion, there were moments when I genuinely enjoyed my job. Collaborating with my team as we built a service provided a sense of camaraderie. Even in high-pressure situations, the shared experience brought some relief, and the satisfaction of completing tasks, despite the fatigue, was rewarding.

Fear of Following in Leadership's Footsteps

I observed the work ethic of my team leader, who seemed to thrive on overworking himself, often neglecting basic needs like eating and sleeping. While I admired his dedication, I also felt a strong desire not to emulate that lifestyle. It was alarming to realize that I could easily fall into the same pattern if I wasn’t cautious.

The Financial Trade-off

There is, of course, a financial incentive for working 100 hours of overtime, with significant overtime pay. However, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re compensated for your extra hours. If you’re putting in overtime without pay, it’s essential to seek assistance from the Labor Standards Council.

A Call for Reflection

It's vital to take a step back and consider what you're working for and the purpose of your life. As I reflect on my age, I feel reassured that there are still new opportunities out there.

In Summary

Working 100 hours of overtime can be detrimental to your health, potentially leading to severe consequences such as death from overwork. It’s important to recognize when you’re in a precarious situation and to take action to protect your well-being. If you find yourself wanting to change jobs or feeling overwhelmed, it’s essential to act swiftly.