Because of its obvious derivation from "alcoholic," the word "workaholic" seems to have negative associations in people's minds.
But while it's true that the workaholic pays a price, his disease has payoffs that give it some positive aspects.
When workaholism becomes extreme, the person is wholly wrapped up in his work and lets his whole self-esteem ride on business success.
One danger is that if failure comes, even if for no fault of his own, the workaholic is unprepared to handle it and may have an emotional crisis. Another is that when striving is too intense, it can lead to burnout. Moreover, an obsession with work can damage marriage and other …