Even before the pandemic burnout was a common workplace affliction, but today we all know someone who suffers from it … maybe we do ourselves?
Burnout presents itself in several different flavours and shapes. Here’s how to identify the type of you may be experiencing … and what you can do about it.
1. Overload burnout
If you overlook personal needs or your own life to fulfill work demands, you may have overload burnout.
What can you do about it?
If this is your situation, try to use positive self-talk to readjust your own priorities and restore your sense of self outside the office. Instead of saying to yourself “I need to work all the time to keep up with my colleagues and be successful,” try saying, “Striking a better balance in my life will help me rebuild my stamina so that I can achieve my goals.”
2. Under-challenged burnout
If you feel your company or job doesn’t offer you opportunities to grow, you might be suffering from under-challenged burnout.
What can you do about it?
If this is your situation, identify some achievable development goals you have been seeking. Making strides towards something that feels meaningful and fun can lift you out of a funk—even if those strides aren’t directly related to your career.
3. Neglect burnout
If you stop trying when projects at work don’t go as planned, you give up in response to obstacles or setbacks, or you simply feel demoralized when you face your daily to-do list, you might be suffering from neglect burnout.
What can you do about it?
If this is your situation, try to identify exactly what you’re dreading and create a “to-don’t” list—a list of responsibilities you can talk to your manager about saying “no” to or delegating. And of course, prioritize self-care outside of work.
I hope these three approaches help. Wishing you the best best! Nicola
Harvard Business Review
