Burnout is the combination of damaging work conditions with the lack of satisfaction in achievements. It is especially common when someone is emotionally invested in pursuing a goal and has high expectations of themselves. Eventually, the demands of the job exceed the individual’s capacity and they become overwhelmed by their ordinary tasks. This causes negative feelings and a lack of drive. This feeling of a lack of motivation can be noticed in the work environment and even when returning home to the family, as duties in both domains are ongoing and challenging.

Burnout is not generally shown through outward signs, but rather through inner individual feelings of distress and discomfort. Symptoms can be expressed as an efficiency decline and progressing lack of interest or enthusiasm, along with mood swings and fatigue. Progressive burnout even has physical effects such as migraines, nausea, high blood pressure, rheumatoid arthritis, ulcers, and chronic pain.

Burnout becomes a major issue when someone gets continuous swings of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and a lack of personal accomplishment.

How to Manage Burnout

  • Recognize that this phenomenon is not something you are doing wrong, and it is not your fault. You should not feel guilty for how you feel or blame yourself for not doing enough. Know that other people are able to help reduce your load and make it easier for you to fulfil your responsibilities. Start saying no to additional assignments, and delegate work to others if needed. Your community and colleagues are there to support you. Communicate how you feel and seek help.
  • Learn meditation and breathing exercises to help control your mind and body when feeling out of control.
  • Do things that you enjoy. Take a much-needed break to relax.
  • The more you notice the signs of burnout, the more strategies you will develop to overcome it. With these skills, burnout will occur less often and at a weaker intensity. ­

References

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