The rise of the new careerist: 3 Really great ways to manage your ambition

Learn to keep your ambition in check, as we get the doctor's orders on being a successful career women (and staying sane).

Career women
Career women
(Image credit: ABC)

Learn to keep your ambition in check, as we get the doctor's orders on being a successful career women (and staying sane).

Do you check your Blackberry as soon as you wake up? Rarely take a lunch break? Suffer from work-related insomnia? You're not alone.

Career women
(Image credit: ABC)

Of course, ambition is a good thing, but could our attitude to work be leaving us stressed, deflated and unhappy? Dr Michael Sinclair, of the City Psychology Group, told us: '[Too much work] can lead to anxiety, panic attack, OCD and depression. We like to be good multitaksers, but we're better when we focus on one thing.'

Here are Dr Sinclair's tips to ensure ambition doesn't become unhealthy:

1. Take time to reflect When stress is stopping you from eating or sleeping properly, or when you don't have time to see friends, you are in danger of burnout.

2. Replenish your energy levels If you're being drained by all the demands in your life, you need to take time out to top up your energy reserves.

3. Learn mindfulness This is a great way to de-stress. It involves meditation, but it's about being kind to yourself and asking 'Is this helpful to my well-being?'

With this in mind, here are 8 ways you can balance your body and mind.

Is your ambition getting the better of you and your career? Share your thoughts in the comments box below...

Looking for more career inspo? It's not too late to book tickets for Marie Claire's @ Work Live, in association with Cointreau and Next. A one-day event on 23 April 2016, featuring advice, tips and inspiration from incredible speakers.