Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that’s triggered by continuous stress or excessive workload. It usually happens in situations where we feel overwhelmed, emotionally drained and unable to meet constant demands. Pay attention to your physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing, and take action if you notice signs of burnout. Don’t ignore warning signs such as chronic fatigue, irritability, or decreased job satisfaction.
Burnout isn’t just about the hours you work. Let’s explore the factors that drive burnout.
- A sense of false urgency. Constant fires that need to be put out and emergencies that never seem to stop, along with unrealistic deadlines.
- Unfair treatment. There is unequal treatment or favouritism, which can quickly lead to resentment, and later, burnout.
- Relentless and erratic changes to leadership, processes, and policies, with no clear strategy or roadmap.
- Excessive workload. The work just keeps piling on, with no sign of relief or support coming.
- Limited growth. You feel stuck in your role, and there are very few opportunities to move up.