3 Ways to Avoid Workplace Burnout
 | Turning Point HCM is proud to present the following article by Dean Burgess, of Excitepreneur.net. Dean Burgess started Excitepreneur to explore the areas of entrepreneurship that are often overlooked, and share with current and aspiring entrepreneurs the stories and lessons he has learned. He fully believes entrepreneurs will lead us to a more exciting future. |
According to Andrew Naber, most of us spend one-third of our life at work, which is an incredible chunk of time. That's why, whenever possible, it’s so important to work in an environment that supports, encourages, and empowers you. However, even in the best of workplace situations, many employees still experience some kind of burnout or anxiety from time to time. Maybe you have felt this way—burned out on repetitive or emotionally-draining work or stressed out from being at or over capacity.
If you are facing burnout, anxiety or even depression at the idea of going to work—not just any work, but your work—here are three tips that could be a game-changer.
Get a second wind in a new position As Michael Page explains, feeling stagnant in your current position can leave you feeling lost or even hopeless. This could all change with a nice, relaxing vacation or a conversation with your boss about changes in responsibility. Or, it could be the way things are. In those situations, a job change could be the refresh you need. Start looking for employment opportunities that line up with a refresh. Try not to look for something that could lead to the same problems you’re experiencing in your current position.
After giving your resume a makeover and getting your references together, be sure to get to know the specifics about the companies you want to work for. This will be unbelievably helpful when you get those call backs to interview. Doing some research on the company can help you tailor your responses to their specific mission and vision. You can also learn what kinds of questions you’ll have to field, as well as questions you should ask them. Consider bringing a portfolio or reference letters to share with the hiring manager.
Get away from everyone and everything Go on a retreat. You may try to talk yourself out of it, but getting away from the regular routine is an excellent way to stave off burnout. Going on a retreat--putting some distance between you and the status quo--can help you see your life and its meaning with a new perspective. A silent, meditative retreat can have substantial long-term mental and physical effects, like improved metabolism, lower blood pressure and reduced anxiety.
An active retreat is one that involves hiking in nature, working with animals, exploring new cultures, and/or learning how to cook vibrant foods and can energize the body while softening the soul. Either way, detaching from your responsibilities gives you a chance to develop new perspectives, including the way you feel about the work you do. You might also learn strategies for redefining your goals and managing stress, anxiety and burnout at work.
Coping with Work-Induced Depression From toxic work environments to rigid and authoritarian workplace cultures, WeWork notes the risk of suffering depression related to our jobs is pretty high. Some people never seem to land exactly the career they want, while others struggle to be their best self when working under certain types of managerial styles.
Managing negativity at work, especially if you have to stay there awhile, might feel like an uphill battle. First, be sure you’re taking your lunch breaks. Chances are you’ve sacrificed them for something, like finishing deadlines on time, running errands or shuffling kids around. Your lunch break is guaranteed “me time,” so take advantage. Go for a walk, eat your lunch with a friend, take a yoga class or read a book. Take this time to unwind and let go of any issues you are experiencing with work.
Your home should be your refuge from your job. However, workplace dissatisfaction can have an impact on your home life as well. To combat this situation, prioritize making your abode as stress-free as possible. Consider decluttering the house to maximize open space, and spruce up the place with greenery, such as fresh plants or flowers. If you make your home as comfortable and relaxing as possible, you may find coping with work a little bit easier.
The average person changes jobs twelve times in their lifetimes, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and that number will likely increase as more workers seek more satisfaction, or at least less unhappiness, on the job. From benefits and pay to work-life balance, there are a lot of reasons employees explore new opportunities. If you are experiencing burnout or workplace-related anxiety, a new job can be the ticket to a new outlook on life.
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