Workplace burnout is nowadays a very common and serious occupational issue. It can be described as a state of emotional, mental and physical exhaustion caused by “chronic workplace stress which has not been successfully managed”. So, a wide range of symptoms are affected by burnout. It is usually hard to be noticed directly. It is a gradual process, which grows on you and becomes worse as it goes on.
Here are 5 stages that are noticed during a burnout:
- Honeymoon phase: Similar to the honeymoon period in a marriage, this stage is full of enthusiasm and hope. It’s typical to feel satisfied when beginning a new job, which might result in spurts of productivity and the opportunity to unleash your creative side.
- Onset of stress phase: The honeymoon period eventually ends, and you start to feel stressed. Although stress doesn’t last throughout the entire day, it does happen more frequently at certain points. Keep an eye for any possible physical or mental symptoms as this stage gets started. You could start to find it easier to lose focus or work less efficiently. Physical exhaustion can begin to set in, making it harder to sleep or take pleasure in things outside of work.
- Chronic stress phase: You will eventually reach a point where the anxiety intensifies or becomes chronic. As the tension grows, the stress is probably going to have a continuous impact on your work. Examples include feeling indifferent, not finishing assignments on time, arriving behind schedule, or putting off duties. Socially, you could avoid engaging in typical business-related talks. At times, you could lose your temper and strike out at your coworkers. These emotions might sometimes follow you home and have an impact on your interactions with friends and family.
- Burnout phase: You hit your breaking point during this stage and are unable to continue operating normally. Workplace issues start to overwhelm you to the point that you become obsessed with them. You might also occasionally feel emotionless and have a lot of self-doubt. Physical symptoms will worsen, resulting in gastrointestinal problems, frequent headaches, and stomach and backaches. The attitude of friends and family members may also shift.
- Habitual burnout phase: Burnout can become a regular part of your life if it is not handled, eventually resulting in anxiety or depression. Chronic physical and mental exhaustion that keeps you from working can also start to set in. If you go on this course, your employment position can be in danger.
Are you on the road to burnout? Just ask yourself: Is every day a bad day? Are you exhausted all the time? Do you find it hard to concentrate? Are you not satisfied with your achievements? Have you become impatient with your co-workers or clients? Do you feel like nothing you are doing is making a difference? Do you have trouble sleeping?
The key to prevent it is to notice it at an early stage. But if this is not possible and you have already passed your breaking point, it is important to just pause and change direction by understanding how you can deal with burnout. First of all, you need plenty of rest and a healthy and balanced diet. Someone could also explore the option of finding a different activity that will relax him/her. It is significant to seek support. Whether you reach out to coworkers, friends or loved ones, support and collaboration might help you cope. Reframing the way you look at work can be an effective help. Try to find some value in your work, if you don’t it is better to quit or change the path of your career.
If you are ready for a change…
Check all available jobs here.
