Understanding Burnout: 5 Things to Look for, and What to do About it

One reason job seekers tell us they are searching for a new career is burnout. Burnout is not just a feeling of stress and being chronically overwhelmed, it is a prolonged state of physical and emotional exhaustion. The cause can be factors in the workplace or in one’s personal life. Burnout can manifest in many ways and impact your mental health, physical well-being, and overall job performance.

Signs of Burnout: How to know if you are experiencing it.

If you think you are experiencing burnout, use this list of signs and symptoms as a self-check:

1. Physical Exhaustion: Do you feel tired all the time? Like you can’t get enough sleep? Are you feeling an ongoing lack of energy, and having difficulty getting restful sleep?
2. Emotional Detachment: Are you feeling emotionally detached or disengaged from your work, colleagues, or personal life?
3. Reduced Performance: Noticing a noticeable decline in your job performance? You are making mistakes, and typical daily tasks are taking you longer. You feel like you don’t have the motivation to complete projects.
4. Cynicism, Negativity, and Irritability: If you notice your mood seems to be negative toward work, and you have a lack of enthusiasm for tasks, those are burnout red flags. Irritability, impatience, or frustration, especially in professional settings, are also signs of burnout.
5. Physical Symptoms: You are getting frequent headaches and stomach issues; and may have changes in appetite, and muscle tension (like shoulder or back aches) are all signs that things are out of balance.

Overcoming Burnout: strategies to manage your well-being.

If you can relate to the above, you could be experiencing burnout. Use these techniques to overcome burnout and begin on a path to well-being.

• Self-Reflection: Take a step back to assess your current state. Acknowledge and validate your feelings, while determining what set of circumstances brought you to this place.
• Set Boundaries: Taking a few days off might seem like an effective way to reset, but the reality is the core issue that contributed to your burnout still exists. Start by establishing clear boundaries between your work and personal life. Avoid overcommitting and learn to say no when necessary.
• Seek Support: Talk to friends, family, or a professional about your experiences. Your company may have well-being resources and mental health benefits for you to take advantage of. Sharing your feelings and talking it out can provide valuable perspective and support.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Giving your mind and body scheduled rest is the only way to stop the burnout cycle. Schedule activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Exercise, reading, taking a walk daily, listening to your favorite music, meditating.
• Communicate With Your Employer: If workplace stress is a significant factor in your burnout, consider discussing your concerns with your employer. There may be temporary or permanent ways your manager can help you alleviate stress.

Recognizing and addressing burnout is a courageous step towards reclaiming control over your well-being. Remember, your mental and physical health should always be a priority. In the pursuit of career success, don’t forget to prioritize your most valuable asset – yourself. Your well-being is paramount, and addressing burnout is a crucial step towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.

We at TalentSource, value your well-being and understand there are workplace situations that can cause burnout. If you feel like a career change is necessary, we’d love to partner with you on that journey. Check out our open positions, and see if anything matches your experience and goals.