Burned Out? Practice these tips.
Over 52% of workers are feeling burned out and this number continues to rise daily.
So what can we do about it?
Although combating burnout can feel like another task on our to-do list, we have to understand what it is, so we can alleviate it, and prevent it in the future!
🔥 What is Burnout?
Burnout is often defined as “working harder than we have the resources for.” Working past the point of discomfort, to the point of injury. According to research, Burnout often has us feeling emotionally, physically, and professionally tapped.
In 2019, Burnout was included in the World Health Organization (WHO) as an occupational phenomenon, with health consequences in the International Classification of Diseases!
🪧 What are the signs of burnout?
Just like a marshmallow, you don’t have to wait to be a burning ball of sugar and ash to realize you’re starting to crisp up around the edges. It is important to identify the symptoms that signal to us that we might be starting to burn out. That way we can put in preventative measures to protect ourselves.
Common signs are:
Neglecting healthy habits (eating, exercising, sleep)
Having escape fantasies (quitting, leaving a relationship)
Increased irritability
Unable to turn-off from work
🔧 How can we prevent burnout?
Luckily, the very things that prevent burnout, are also the things that help alleviate it after it's started.
Create an identity outside of work: You are not your job. There are other aspects of your personality - your relationships, hobbies, interests, etc. Nurture other parts of yourself to recalibrate and get those other needs met.
Express yourself: Keeping emotions inside and not expressing them can have serious consequences to overall health. Talking about you’re feeling can alleviate some stress, and remind you that you are not in this alone. Creative expression counts here too!
Socialize (even if it’s hard): Burnout often makes us want to isolate ourselves. But humans are social creatures (even those of us who identify as introverted!) Take the time to connect with people that make you feel seen, valued, and cared for.
