What to do if your job makes you sick [View all]

[cilla4progress]

I am a paralegal in a small but busy practice. Been in the career @ 25 yrs. 57 years of age now. Did manage to get the "senior" schedule: off on Fridays; work from home (which is 70 miles round-trip from work) on Wednesdays.

I find I can't really keep up the pace any more, without it draining me from my real life - hiking, skiing, horses, canoeing/kayaking, mtn. biking. If I'd known at 20 what I know now, I would have NEVER majored in a mind career, where I sit inside at a computer all day. Very unhealthy lifestyle physically, and for me, psychically. I'm good at it, but it gnaws at me.

For example, I have a humble weekend planned, 2 nights at a cabin 90 minutes into the mountains (my boss's actually) to xc ski with a group of women friends. Yesterday, end of the day at work, all kinds of "emergencies" running around, hustling. On top of readying for the trip - preparing food to bring and packing - I exhausted myself and now have a touch of a cold/sore throat.

Resentful of our modern society's pace, yet grateful for a good job. (Decent wage; contribution to medical; no retirement, however.) Can't afford to retire yet (of course).

Don't know if I am asking more for advice here, or just commiseration! Maybe help me get my head on straight...or just share your coping strategies!