However, looking at it more objectively, drawing a clear line between work and rest time is actually a natural defense mechanism for employees against escalating burnout.
According to Gallup's 2023 State of the Global Workplace report, up to 59% of the global workforce is in a state of "quiet quitting", meaning they do exactly and only the responsibilities assigned in their job descriptions.
Medically, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have published a global study showing that working 55 hours or more per week increases the risk of stroke by 35% and the risk of dying from ischemic heart disease by 17% compared to the standard 35-40 hours.
Closing the laptop exactly at the end of the workday does not automatically turn us into lazy people, provided that during the previous 8 hours, we worked at our peak performance and delivered real value commensurate with the compensation received. The essence of an employment contract is a fair exchange of time, skills, and salary. When we work overtime continuously without financial recognition or promotion opportunities, we are devaluing our own labor.
However, this boundary truly turns into "laziness" if, during official working hours, we display a superficial attitude, shirk responsibilities, or deliberately prolong the completion of a basic task.
To protect our mental health without losing professionalism or displeasing our superiors, we need a clear understanding of communication and time management skills.
First, we must focus maximally to completely resolve important tasks within regular working hours; excellent work results will be the strongest defense against any complaints about time.
Second, be transparent in setting expectations with your boss from the very beginning. We can express a willingness to help in truly urgent situations, but firmly and tactfully refuse trivial requests that can wait until the next morning.
Finally, instead of remaining silently dissatisfied, proactively propose solutions to improve the workflow if we notice that the workload exceeds what one person can handle in 8 hours.
