“Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It occurs when you feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained, and unable to meet constant demands.“
Most of us have probably come across a burnt out individual in our time; the one who walks out and quits in a whirlwind of drama, the person who completely loses it at the boss for pushing too hard, or the one who sends a company-wide email about how “crappy the management team” are…
But before it goes that far, there are early warning signs we can look out for:
– Physical exhaustion: Do you constantly feel tired, under the weather or even physically ill?
– Emotional exhaustion:Do you constantly feel upset, angry, frustrated or even depressed?
– Cynicism and detachment: Do you feel frustrated and negative and do you struggle to find enjoyment in anything (especially your job)?
– Lack of accomplishment: Has your work started to suffer? And do you feel useless?
It’s important to catch these warning signs early on, before it’s too late.
And honestly, perhaps YOU haven’t noticed, but your loved ones will have.
Obviously, the best case scenario is avoiding burnout altogether.
So here’s how to do that…
1. Don’t overwork yourself. 🙅♀️
I’ve seen it so many times… “super-staff” who are both passionate and committed, but who think they can do anything and everything.
But that’s just not the case. If you don’t:
Take your breaks.
Get enough sleep.
Work reasonable hours.
Switch off when you get home.
Ask for help when you need it.
You will eventually burnout.
And you’re not at your most productive anyway, so you’re not doing anyone, any favours.
NB: “Switching off when you get home” means actually switching off when you get home; no checking your emails or thinking about work.
Your brain needs a proper break.
2. Make friends. 🗣
Socialise with co-workers when you get the chance.
These relationships will boost your happiness, help you to feel supported and alleviate some of your stress.
Recruiter Pro Tip:
Of course, it’s important to do the same outside of work too. Human beings are sociable creatures; we all need a support network and people we can trust to help and advise us.
“Do you feel that your work/life balance is making you ill? Are stress-related problems, chronic sickness, anxiety or depression affecting your ability to show up and do your job? Perhaps you’re already suffering from burnout.”