We\u2019re guessing that most of us have either experienced feelings of burnout at work and\/or have observed it in others.<\/p>\n
We\u2019ll start by sharing a definition provided by Dr. David Ballard of The American Psychological Association:<\/p>\n
Burn-out is an extended period of time where someone experiences exhaustion and a lack of interest in things, resulting in a decline in their job performance.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
During times of change and uncertainty, and the associated demands, burnout is being experienced in greater volumes because of our inability to manage the stressors.<\/p>\n
Signs of Burnout in an Organization<\/h2>\n
Before you can try to control burn out, you must first recognize what it looks like. Across the organization, are you seeing (or experiencing) these signs of burnout:<\/p>\n
\n
- Mental fatigue<\/li>\n
- Role ambiguity or role conflict<\/li>\n
- Unusual demands<\/li>\n
- Stressful situations<\/li>\n
- Work and output overload\/underload<\/li>\n
- Unpredictable behaviors<\/li>\n
- Productivity issues related to job security<\/li>\n
- Lack of or inappropriate communication<\/li>\n
- Withdrawal<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
We have the need to feel good about ourselves, be proud of the value we provide, and of our accomplishments. We have a natural drive to “achieve,” and in general, confidence levels suffer when we don\u2019t meet our own expectations. We\u2019re our own harshest critic!<\/p>\n
You are most vulnerable to burnout when the stresses you experience impact negatively on the things that you find most fulfilling in your job. Not only do you experience the unpleasantness of stress, you lose the job satisfaction that counter-balances this.
\n<\/strong>–MindTools on Stress Management<\/p><\/blockquote>\nHelpful Burn0ut Coping\u00a0Suggestions<\/h2>\n
Identify what is causing the burnout and address it. Positively attacking and solving problems, creating solutions, and implementing change will help.<\/p>\n
Focus on your demeanor; don\u2019t deny or ignore your negative feelings. It\u2019s okay to share both negative and positive feelings in a professional manner. Everything is not always sunny.<\/p>\n
Build relationships and create a network; get a mentor. Share feelings and work with others to create positive energy.<\/p>\n
Be flexible; plan for, and expect change. Be genuine, and be open to changing your behaviors that address and minimize burn-out. The result: productivity and happiness levels will improve.<\/p>\n
Don\u2019t ignore what you\u2019re feeling; take control!<\/p>\n
Here’s a Wealth of Information<\/h3>\n
Each week we\u2019ll partner with QwikCoach and provide the ability for you to reinforce or expand your knowledge of a prior topic.<\/p>\n
Last week\u2019s tip focused on\u00a0Confidence and Competence.<\/p>\n