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This content has been automatically translated from Ukrainian.
The theme «karosi» – is a real phenomenon that at first glance may seem like something from someone else's reality. But this word has incredible weight and relevance for the whole world, including Ukraine. Let's figure out what it means and why it should be talked about.
What is Karoshi/Karoshi?
Karosi ( ⁇ ) is a Japanese word that literally translates as «death from overworking». This concept arose in Japan in the 70s of the last century and became a symbol of problems related to excessive workloads in the workplace. Karosi is not just «fatigue» or «overload». This is a real physical condition that leads to death due to cardiovascular disease, strokes or other diseases caused by excessive hours of work, stress and lack of rest.
Japan has long been known for its work culture, where hard work and dedication to the company come first. And while the economic success of this country would seem to confirm the effectiveness of this approach, «karosi» has become the dark side of this coin. According to statistics, thousands of people die every year from overstrain at work.
But what makes this phenomenon relevant for us, Ukrainians? Why is the topic «karosi» important outside of Japan?
In today's world, globalization, new economic conditions, and the influence of Western work practices have begun to change the labor culture in many countries, including Ukraine. We see more and more people working two or even three jobs, getting up at dawn and falling asleep deep past midnight to catch up. The level of stress from work tasks is increasing, and the line between work and personal life is becoming more and more blurred. This process is often called the «cult of work», when a person cannot separate himself from professional duties.
Karosi in the context of Ukraine
Although there are no official statistics of such cases in Ukraine, modern labor trends, especially in large cities, can lead to similar consequences. An intensive work schedule, constant deadlines and expectations of a quick result can seriously affect health. Sometimes it seems that continuous work is the only way to success and financial stability. But the price for this approach to life may be too high.
Imagine the situation: you work without a break for 10-12 hours a day, you are constantly in a state of stress due to unfinished tasks, you eat your nerves due to deadlines, and after working at home, you will have a new dose of worries. If you don't allow yourself to stop, this mode becomes a habit. And now the body can't stand it.
How to avoid carossa?
- Clear demarcation of working time. In Japan, they are starting to implement a policy that helps people go home on time. This is a gradual but very important step which aims to change the culture of work. This is also relevant in Ukraine - it is important to finish work and rest on time.
- Health care. Karosi is a reminder that health should come first. Regular medical check-ups, proper nutrition, and physical activity can help reduce risks.
- Preservation of psychological balance. Stress at work is normal, but it is extremely important to be able to manage it. Meditations, hobbies, time with family can all help to regain strength.
- Observance of labor rights. Sometimes carossi occurs due to exceeding normal working hours, ignoring vacations and violating the rights of employees. It is important to know your rights and be able to assert them without allowing employers to use you without measure.
A modern look at work: carossi as a warning
The phenomenon of karosi is a serious warning that overwork can have fatal consequences. And although in Japan this problem has long been the subject of discussions and even legislative initiatives, in many other countries, in particular in Ukraine, they are just beginning to listen to it. It is worth remembering that work should not become the meaning of life. It is only part of our existence, and if we allow it to take us completely, the consequences can be tragic.
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