A guide to identifying and managing job burnout
What is Job Burnout?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, job burnout can be described as exhaustion from work, feeling frustrated, exhausted & overwhelmed by stress, and having difficulty dealing with others. It involves loss of identity and feelings of diminished accomplishment.
Reasons for Burnout in the Workplace:
Burnout has numerous causes and it is observed that professionals experience it throughout their careers, some of the main reasons include:
- Inability to make decisions that affect your work - such as your schedule, assignments, and lack of resources.
- Uncertainty about your authority or what your colleagues expect from you.
- Dysfunctional workplace environment. For example micromanagement, bullying, lack of support resources, or undeserved promotions.
- Chaotic work that drains energy and requires focus.
- Lack of work-life balance.
Job Burnout's Symptoms:
The byproducts of burnout are different from the usual stress that we all experience, so how do I differentiate between having a rough week vs. experiencing job burnout?
Some red flags are:
- Decision-making avoidance
- The general disregard for personal needs
- Inadequate Social Interaction
- Declined Productivity
- Change in Diet
- Grinding Teeth while sleeping
Job Burnout's Consequences:
A research article by the Mayo Clinic presents that ignoring burnout’s effects can have severe implications on one’s well being, that includes:
- Excessive anxiety
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Sadness
- Rage
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Increased Blood pressure
How to manage Job Burnout?
When facing difficult or challenging situations, feeling exhausted or sad is a natural consequence. A lower mood turns over eventually, but where symptoms become critical seeking help becomes very important.
Here are some tips and tricks to avoid or manage Burnout:
- Tracking incidents or people that cause stress and avoiding them.
- Creating a healthy routine that combines a nutritious diet, exercise, and meditation.
- Discussing your concerns with your partner, friend, or professional life coach.
- Talk to your manager and discuss your work schedule and their expectations from you.
- Taking a break from work when it is possible.
- Practice your hobbies.
- Improving your time management skills by prioritizing your to-do list and avoiding procrastination.
Lastly, Remind yourself of your purpose within your role in the company and how significant your contribution is impacting your family, coworkers, and your company.
References:
[2] https://www.apa.org/monitor/20...
