However, that isn't necessarily true. I can have a rough day at work, feel like I suck, and still come home to my loving husband, our beautiful fur babies, and a roof over our heads. I am so much more than my work. I have so many interests and I am constantly striving to improve myself and promote my own well-being. I have a life outside of my work, and I don't take my work home with me (this took a lot of practice and work, and definitely switching jobs). Balance, people, balance!
As Kimberly writes, I don't lose sight of the fact that I am me. I'm me! I am more than work-me. I can feel proud of my occupation, and I can complete tasks at work like a boss and with tons of passion and discipline, but must keep in mind that I am not my job. That way, the pressure is off. I can get daily tasks done without feeling like it is life or death, the be-all and end-all.
So how do you do this? How can you avoid defining yourself by your work? Have hobbies. Healthy hobbies. Leave work at work. Use this mantra: I do what I can. Use this mantra: It will all get done, everything falls into place. Eat well! Start meditating or doing yoga or just finding some form of exercise, and do it at least 3 times a week. Go for a walk, get outside and connect with the world around you sans phone (unless there's an amazing thing you need to Instagram). Spend time with the people you love without technology or a TV - talk! Get to know them. Get to know you! I think self-exploration is the coolest thing - I mean, come on, I'm an introvert. And, because I am in part an [dark, brooding] existentialist, we are essentially alone; only we live in our body, only we can hear our thoughts (unless you're a psychic or maybe are experiencing some auditory-hallucinations). Thus, all you've got is you, better get to know you and treat you well!
xx
S