Workaholism poses a growing challenge in the United States, resulting in burnout, high turnover rates, and increased costs. In response, we are organizing an event featuring a keynote and panel discussion with Melvin Pillay, author of "UNWORK," and James Rosebush, former Deputy Assistant to President Reagan, Chief of Staff to First Lady Nancy Reagan, and Senior Advisor at the White House.

This event aims to examine potential strategies for organizations and policymakers, as well as individual approaches to combat workaholism. Moreover, it seeks to explore the need for a shift in the discourse surrounding productivity and personal success in the United States. We invite you to join us in exploring solutions for enhancing workplace well-being and reducing the societal burdens of overwork.

The concept of "UNWORK" challenges the prevailing notion of workaholism as an acceptable addiction and aims to dispel the outdated belief that "Hard work never killed anyone." In reality, it does. The implications are substantial, as highlighted by the following statistics:

• Workaholics tend to work 20 hours more per week than non-workaholics.
• In a Norwegian study, 8.3% of the general workforce qualified as workaholics.
• 30% of Americans feel guilty for taking a vacation and can be classified as workaholics.
• 64% of U.K. employees are workaholics who work on their days off.
• Workaholics have a 60% higher rate of depression and anxiety.
• Workaholics spend 48% more time at work than the average worker.
• In Korea, 20.7% of employees aged between 20-39 years are considered workaholics.
• Workaholics are 33% more likely to suffer from sleep disorders.
• 40% of workaholics blame their bosses for their excessive working hours.
• During the pandemic, 69% of workaholics reported an increase in work-related stress.
• Workaholics are nearly two times more likely to suffer a heart attack.
• Workaholics in the U.S. work 49 hours per week on average.
• 79% of workaholics are considered "highly engaged" with their work.
• Workaholics in the U.S. work 2.1 months more every year than Europeans.
• In the U.S., workaholics are 70% more likely to work remotely.
• For workaholics, work-life balance satisfaction is 34% lower.
• Workaholics, on average, have a productivity decrease of 10-15%.
• 64% of workaholics use technology to work during their vacations.
• Workaholic CEOs' companies perform 4% worse with mandatory CEO retirement policies.
• 46% of U.S. employees feel their workload has increased in the past six months, potentially contributing to workaholism. 

- Courtesy of Zipdo, writer Alexander Eser. 

"UNWORK" is not a new philosophy or concept; it was introduced over 2000 years ago by Jesus as an approach for those consumed by labor and a religious, humanistic connection to God. In Matthew 11:28-30, Jesus said, "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and you shall find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

Consequently, exploring and embracing alternative paradigms of work, success, and fulfillment is imperative. "UNWORK" represents a call to revolutionize how individuals perceive work, success, and fulfillment, empowering them to break free from the chains of overwork. Join us in redefining success and embracing a life of freedom and fulfillment.

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