A guide to identifying and managing job burnout
- Marko S.
- Sep 8, 2022
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 21, 2024
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.
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