How to identify burnout and keep your passion for work
When I first heard about burnout, it was presented as an abrupt and unexpected breakdown; the result of getting knocked over by a wave. But as I've experienced and witnessed on numerous occasions throughout my years working (and learning), burnout comes in many shapes and forms:
- It can be gradual and happen over time.
- It can be more of an internal battle with yourself.
- You can feel it for a short time or constantly.
- It can be subtle or sudden.
- Sometimes you don't always know if you're experiencing burnout, even if it's happening to you.
I'd like to share some words of wisdom for identifying when you're experiencing burnout and how to overcome it.
Identifying burnout can be a challenge in itself, but it's especially difficult because of how diverse the experience is. The first step is to remember that you're not alone and that there are many people going through the same thing. It's good to talk about it with others, even if just for support. If you're feeling up to it, try writing down your thoughts in a journal—this has been very helpful for me when I'm trying to figure out what's wrong.
Once you've pinpointed why you feel like something isn't quite right, then take action by utilizing one or more of the following strategies:
- Although getting rid of your workload seems like an ideal solution at first glance, this is only a temporary fix. We want to learn how to overcome it completely. not just push it aside for it to come back later.
- You can try restructuring your current assignments or tasks in a different way that is more manageable
- Some days are just not meant for productivity. Sometimes, you just need to take some time off and give yourself the mental break you deserve!
- It's okay if taking care of yourself means neglecting your responsibilities for a little while—especially when it comes to mental health. Do what you need to do in order to keep moving forward
- We all have moments where we feel like quitting our jobs because it feels like nothing will ever change... but there is always something positive on the other side of each situation no matter how challenging it may seem at first glance
Burnout is a serious issue and we want you to enjoy your job. But if it's feeling like work, not play, then it might be time to take a break or make some changes in how you approach the day-to-day tasks of running your business.
Luckily for us all there are many actions that can help relieve burnout including tackling one task at a time instead of multitasking; taking care of yourself by getting enough sleep and eating well; making sure to get out into nature on occasion, and giving back by volunteering or donating money to causes you believe in.
If you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or overly tired, or if you’ve been experiencing these warning signs for a while now, please take some time to re-evaluate your current situation and figure out what it will take to help get back on track.
By Harlen Malkowich