Even after you clock off for the day, how often do you think about work? Do thoughts of answering emails or preparing for a meeting come to you in the shower or while you chop your vegetables for dinner? Or, unhelpfully, just as you’re drifting off to sleep?

We know that in recent years, it’s become harder to switch off than ever. More than half of employees in the UK claim to feel overworked, so it’s little wonder that the trials and tribulations of our working day often spill into after-hours, with thoughts of our jobs consuming us long after our laptops are shut.

But aside from taking up your valuable free time, ‘overfocusing’ on work can have a very detrimental impact on your happiness.

According to new research from the University of Bath, prioritising achievement over freedom on a daily level is making us unhappier. Nearly 200 people across three countries were followed for nine days, where assessments were taken of their values, their satisfaction with life, depression, anxiety, stress, fulfilment and daily wellbeing.

The researchers found that people who prioritised achievement over everything else on a given day did not have as high happiness levels the next day as compared to those who prioritised values such as hedonism and self-direction. Put simply, putting in the work to reach our goals is important, but it isn’t everything.

In a generation of burnout, the fact that working too much isn’t good for us should come as little surprise. Earlier this year, a separate study led by Dr Paul Hanel at the University of Essex’s Department of Psychology also found that people who prioritised work-based achievement over enjoyment were less happy. Instead, those who aimed for ‘freedom’ reported a 13% increase in wellbeing, better sleep quality and life satisfaction. 

Clearly, we need to be making sure our time isn’t taken up only by work, but this can often be easier said than done. So take this as a reminder: carve out some quality time for relaxing, de-stressing and actually enjoying life, and your wellbeing will benefit. 

Images: Getty