Are you dysfunctional? The answer is probably yes… we are all dysfunctional in our own unique ways. The better question is “what is your dysfunction costing you?” Way back in my clinical days, when we were assessing a patient we would always ask: “is this person in danger of hurting him/herself or in danger of hurting others?” If the answer was “yes,” we had to step in. As you consider your unique dysfunctions and what they might be costing you, consider this version of that very same question:

“Are my beliefs and actions costing me from having the life I want… and am I hurting others along the way?”

To that end, here is a work/life dysfunction quiz for you. Note how many times you answer “yes” to the statements below. Oh, and one more important point before you get started, be gut-level honest with yourself. After all, you’re the one who has to live with you!

Am I Dysfunctional? – QUIZ:

1. The number of hours I work each week equals or exceeds 80 hrs.

2. I’ve been fired for the same reason 3 times or more.

3. I never like to stay in the same place (either town and/or company) for more than 3 years. I’ve got to keep moving.

4. I don’t tell other people “no.” I have a difficult time setting boundaries and have a tendency to over commit.

5. I don’t trust anyone I work with… ever. People will eventually turn on you so it is best to always stay on guard.

6. I have a history of poor personal relationships because of my work getting in the way AND/OR I’ve been divorced 3 times or more.

7. My workplace reminds me of my family dysfunction growing up. I’m repeating unhealthy life patterns in the kinds of work environments I choose AND/OR I’m attracted to dysfunctional work environments.

8. I don’t trust myself and my decisions – ever. I’m always second-guessing myself.

9. I have a tendency to stay in one place, one role, and one relationship too long.

10. I have to win at all costs. If you’re not first, you’re last (thank you Ricky Bobby).

So, how did you do? Make a mental note of which one(s) you said “yes” to from the list above and what those particular dysfunctions might be costing you at home and in your career. In upcoming posts this month, we’ll dive deeper into these particular patterns and talk about the ways you can stop those dysfunctions in their collective tracks.

So back to our initial question: Are you dysfunctional? At the end of the day, the only question that really matters is: What are you prepared to do about it?