The Modern Workplace

As with other aspects of human life, the modern workplace has been profoundly affected by the presence and development of technology.  There was once a more distinct line between professional work and leisure, but electronics and digital technology have triggered a shift.  People are now regularly connected with each other and with information on a digital level, with some of that information pertaining to their jobs.

The prominence of digital communication via email, texting, and social media in the corporate world means that workers are sometimes expected to keep up with work-related affairs even when they are not technically working.  Business encroaches upon all of modern life.  Thus, the line between working hours and leisure is blurred for some jobs, although others might not be affected very much by the integration of digital technology and business.

Some people might consequently feel pressured to make more and more of their lives revolve around their careers, even when they are at home or otherwise away from their offices (unless they work from home or have to travel, of course), lest they be penalized by their corporate leaders or forfeit any advantages that technology offers.  Because of this, they might wonder about how to tell if they have placed too much focus on their jobs.  Thankfully, the line is simple.

There is nothing wrong with finding fulfillment in one's career or investing large amounts of time into it as long as one does not sacrifice outside obligations (such as to friends or family).  However, it is vital to remember that there is a great deal more to humanity than corporate accomplishment and workplace talent.  It is not putting a great deal of effort into a career that is erroneous, but treating a career as if it is the ultimate measure of a person's significance.

It is certainly possible to acknowledge this and still care very deeply about one's career.  As long as workplace matters do not interfere with other obligations, there is no such thing as placing too much of an emphasis on them.  Different people will prefer varying amounts of involvement in company work, events, and culture, and those who prefer a greater amount of involvement are not necessarily governed by greed or apathy towards other aspects of life.