July 24, 2023
Are you feeling like a marshmallow left on the campfire a bit too long?
If you’ve ever felt like the weight of the world is crushing your soul as you trudge through the office doors, you’re not alone.
Job burnout is a particular type of work-related stress — a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity.
Understanding Burnout
Imagine burnout as that unwelcome guest who refuses to leave your house party – it’s a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and overwork. The symptoms of burnout can manifest in various ways, such as decreased motivation, feelings of detachment, and a nagging sense of cynicism that clouds even the simplest tasks. It’s crucial to recognize these signs early!
Job burnout can result from various factors, including:
- Changes in your sleep habits
- Difficulty concentrating
- Becoming irritable or impatient with co-workers, customers, or clients.
These are just some of the many symptoms of burnout you could be feeling, and it’s crucial to recognize these signs early to steer clear of the burnout abyss.
But once you recognize it, how do we handle this?
Unleash the Power of Mindfulness
Embrace the art of mindfulness like a seasoned Zen master.
Take a few minutes each day to disconnect from the never-ending hustle and bustle. Close your eyes, breathe deeply, and focus on the present moment.
At IF, we created a two-day Mindfulness event where we have a no-device rule for 15 minutes! Just close your eyes, relax, and listen to the music…
Prioritize like a Pro
Prioritize, prioritize, prioritize!
Identify the most critical tasks and tackle them first. Don’t be shy to delegate or say no when necessary. Remember, you’re a limited resource, and conserving energy is the name of the game!
Seek Support
Reach out to your coworkers and friends to vent your frustrations and share your feelings. Sometimes, a sympathetic ear can work wonders in alleviating the weight of burnout.
In the fast-paced world of deadlines and deliverables, self-care often takes a back seat.
But it’s time to put yourself first! Nourish your body with healthy meals, get enough sleep, engage in activities that bring you joy, and SET BOUNDARIES!
As much as we want to be superheroes, saving the day isn’t always possible. Set boundaries and politely decline additional responsibilities when you’re already at maximum capacity. You’ll find that asserting yourself can be liberating and preserve your sanity.
Mayim Bialik explained it very well:
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup, so fill yours with self-love and watch the burnout fade away.