Are You Over-Doing It?

Are You Over-Doing It? Bryan Robinson, PhD 　　　　Can you remember the last time you had nothing to do but relax? Take the following quiz and find out just how busy you are. Read each of the following 25 statements and decide how much each one pertains to you.

Use the following scale to answer each question and keep track of your score.

The statement is true of me

1 = Never

2 = Sometimes

3 = Often true

4 = Always true

I prefer to do most things myself rather than ask for help. I get very impatient when I have to wait for someone else or when something takes

too long, such as long, slow-moving lines. I seem to be in a hurry, racing against the clock. I get irritated when I am interrupted while I am in the middle of something, I stay busy and keep many "irons in the fire." I find myself doing two or three things at one time, such as eating lunch and writing a

memo, while talking on the phone. I over commit myself by biting off more than I can chew. I feel guilty when I am not working on something. It is important that I see the concrete results of what I do. I am more interested in the final results of my work than in the process. Things just never seem to move fast enough or get done fast enough for me. I lose my temper when things don't go my way or work out to suit me. I ask the same question, without realizing it, after I've already been given the answer. I spend a lot of time mentally planning and thinking about future events, while tuning

out the here and now. I find myself continuing to work after my co-workers have called it quits. I get angry when people don't meet my standards of perfection. I get upset when I am in situations where I cannot be in control. I tend to put myself under pressure with self-imposed deadlines. It is hard for me to relax when I'm not working. I spend more time working than socializing with friends or pursuing hobbies and

leisure activities. I dive into projects to get a head start before all the phases have been finalized. I get upset with myself for making even the smallest mistake. I put more thought, time and energy into my work than I do into my relationships with friends and loved ones. I forget, ignore or minimize important family celebrations such as birthdays,

reunions, anniversaries or holidays. I make important decisions before I have all the facts and have a chance to think them through thoroughly. 　　Now add up the numbers in the blanks for your score.

25-49 = You are not overdoing it.

Congratulations! You've achieved a balance between getting things done and taking time for yourself. Keep it up!

50-69 = You are mildly overdoing it.

You're doing really well, but be careful, you have a tendency to become very busy. Take time for the things that are important to you and don't be afraid to say no.

70-100 = You are highly overdoing it.

Well, you're too busy, but you probably knew that already. Read Risky Busyness, for suggestions on how you can tailor your activities to meet your life goals.

~ Reprinted with permission from Overdoing It, How to Slow Down and Take Care of Yourself by Bryan Robinson PhD, Health Communications, Inc. Dayton Beach, Florida, 1992.