Workplace Burnout & 6 Burning Questions to Ask Yourself
We need to talk about workplace burnout, what causes it, what some of the symptoms are, and ways to prevent it.
I’m also including 6 questions that will change the way you view your work/life balance!
Workplace burnout is a real thing and it’s been happening to more and more people since we entered the Pandemic phase of the last decade. Personally, I have experienced workplace burnout in the last few years, which caused me to leave my job and start my own business so I had more control over my work and my life.
The technical definition of workplace burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress at work. It is a common problem that affects millions of employees worldwide and can lead to decreased job satisfaction, increased absenteeism, and even long-term health problems. As a career counselor, I want everyone to be happy and fulfilled in their jobs, but lately, we are even seeing people who are fulfilled in their current position experience workplace burnout, which is why it is essential to address it.
Causes of Workplace Burnout
Several factors can contribute to workplace burnout, including:
Poor leadership: When you work for a boss who micromanages or is too pushy, it can lead to burnout.
Excessive workload: When you have to work long hours with little time for rest and recovery, it can lead to burnout.
Lack of control: When you feel that they have no control over their work or their work environment, it can lead to burnout.
Unclear job expectations: When you are unclear about what is expected of them or feel that they are not meeting expectations, it can lead to burnout.
Poor work relationships: When you feel unsupported or unappreciated by your colleagues or supervisors, it can lead to burnout.
Insufficient rewards: When you feel that their efforts are not recognized or rewarded, it can lead to burnout.
In addition to the above reasons, the COVID-19 pandemic has also contributed to workplace burnout in many ways. The sudden shift to remote work and the blurring of boundaries between work and home life have made it challenging for employees to disconnect and recharge. The increased workload, coupled with the fear and uncertainty surrounding the pandemic, has also contributed to higher levels of stress and anxiety. Moreover, the isolation and lack of social interaction that comes with remote work can exacerbate feelings of detachment and disengagement from work. Employers can help mitigate the effects of COVID-related burnout by providing support and resources, setting clear expectations, promoting work-life balance, and creating a positive work culture that prioritizes employee well-being.
As much as I want to rule the world, my world anyway (and I’m sure you do, too), we are unable to control the work environment that is causing our burnout. But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t things you can do to mitigate that. Below I provide some suggestions on how to cope with the burnout you may be feeling. AND, don’t forget my 6 burning questions that will change the way you think and feel about your work environment, which are also below.
Symptoms of Workplace Burnout
The symptoms of workplace burnout are different for everyone, there is no one-size-fits-all to workplace burnout. You may experience one or two of these symptoms, or you may be feeling all of them.
Physical exhaustion: Feeling tired and drained, even after a good night's sleep.
Emotional exhaustion: Feeling emotionally drained, overwhelmed, and unable to cope with work-related stress.
Cognitive difficulties: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and trouble making decisions.
Decreased productivity: Reduced efficiency and effectiveness in completing work tasks.
Detachment: Feeling disconnected and disengaged from colleagues and the work itself.
Preventing Workplace Burnout
Preventing workplace burnout requires a comprehensive approach that involves both employees and employers. If you work in an environment where you leadership is open and willing to engage in these types of conversations you can make some of the suggestions below. Likewise, if you are a leader, you can use some of these suggestions and implement a preventive culture at your workplace. Some strategies that can help prevent workplace burnout include:
Encouraging work-life balance: encourage employees to take breaks, use their vacation time, and create a healthy work-life balance.
Providing support and resources: provide resources like employee assistance programs, counseling, and stress management training to help employees cope with stress.
Setting clear expectations: communicate clear job expectations and provide feedback to help employees feel more in control of their work.
Recognizing and rewarding achievements: recognize and reward employees for their hard work and contributions to the organization.
Creating a positive work environment: foster a positive work environment by promoting a culture of respect, inclusivity, and collaboration.
The 6 Most Important Questions to Ask Yourself
I’m including my six burning 🔥 questions for you to ask yourself, right now, if you are experiencing workplace burnout. Many times, we can feel trapped in our position, but it isn’t true. Sometimes, we feel like our job will be in jeopardy if we don’t out-perform or over-perform, but it isn’t true, as long as we are meeting our organization’s expectations. If you answer these questions honestly, you will learn more about yourself and will be on your way to gaining back your sense of fulfillment in your career.
When you started working in your current position, what motivated you and does it still motivate you?
What’s the worst thing that will happen if you stop working more than 40 hours per week (or stop bringing work home to do in your personal time)?
What boundaries can you set to give yourself time and space aside from your work?
Who is placing expectations on you (your boss, your organization, or you)?
What other options are out there within your company that could give you a fresh perspective (and possibly a new supervisor)?
What is the worst thing that is going to happen if you wait until tomorrow to do it?
I hope you’ve found this helpful and I wish you the best of luck in your writing process. If you are looking for more information, please visit my website- Higher & Hire. If I can be of assistance to you, please reach out to me here.
Many Thanks!
Valerie Palmer
