Breaking Free: How I Took My Life Back from Workaholism & Phone Overuse, By Kriquette Davis

There’s a psychological term called an extinction burst — a temporary spike in unwanted behavior right after you stop reinforcing it. It shows up when you’re trying to break a habit, and it hit me hard when I left the job that had become my identity.

I was “Kriquette from the Y” for over three decades. My work defined me. I loved it deeply, but it also consumed me. I became a workaholic, and my phone was practically an extension of my hand. I told myself it helped me get more done, stay ahead, be available. But really, it was sucking the life out of me.

When I lost my job, I didn’t just lose work — I lost who I thought I was. And when I tried to unplug and set boundaries, the discomfort came rushing in: guilt, restlessness, and a crushing need to stay busy. That was the extinction burst — my brain screaming, “This used to work! Why are you changing?”

But I stayed with it. I created Kriquette’s Kidz, a nonprofit rooted in heart and balance, not hustle and burnout. It’s less stressful and far more fulfilling. I still have moments of temptation — to check that phone or overwork — but I know now: peace lives on the other side of that discomfort.

If you're feeling stuck in overwork or screen fatigue:• Expect the discomfort — it’s temporary.• Replace hustle with purpose.• Track your emotions.• Celebrate every step back to yourself.

You are more than your work. You are more than your to-do list. Reclaim your time. It’s worth it.