Workload warning signs

We all do professional reading at home. We all make those occasional work calls during the evening. And, at semester's start, there's enrollment; at the end there's marking. There are times when extra effort is required.

There are, however, warning signs when it's become too much. Here are a few:

• Taking sick days or recreation leave days to get the work done.
• Checking the email before going to the University.
• Regularly taking work calls on the weekend.
• Feeling guilty on a weekend if you're not working.
• Work worries are intruding on your time with family or friends.

I have little sympathy with the claim that to address the situation will mean falling behind your colleagues. (Who can know what desperate lives others are leading?) It's not about competition and it's not about weakness. It's entirely about doing what's safe, sensible and necessary.

Recognition is the first step. But after that there's no simple solution. Of course get professional advice. Contact your union, and contact your doctor, and formulate a plan to deal with the situation before you're injured. (Sure, plan to work smarter, but make sure you're not just fiddling around the edges.) ▪

It is never too late to give up your prejudices
—Henry David Thoreau (1817-1862)