Many of us have experienced burnout, but do know how to address it or what advice to give to colleagues? There are several things you can do to lessen the feelings of burnout and get yourself out of this temporary state altogether.
Feel Alive at Work Again
- Speak with your doctor.
This is the most important step. Burnout can lead to anxiety and depression, both of which should be addressed by a medical professional. - Reduce known stressors.
There are some factors at work that contribute to your stress more than others. Take the time to make a list of these stressors. Write down why they are stressors now, when they may not have been just a few months before. Take into account recent changes in your workplace. Look around at the environment, as well. Are there rampant office politics? Is there a lack of support? - Make healthy lifestyle choices.
Outside of work, there are small things you can do to live a healthier life that will increase your mood and ease stress. Start with ensuring that you have a healthy breakfast and lunch every day and commit to a certain amount of exercise per week. - Speak with your supervisor.
It’s likely that your burnout is negatively affecting your work. Address this with your employer, and come to the table ready with what you are doing to improve your work. Offer examples of how he or she can support you. - Rethink your current position.
If you’ve been in your position for a long period of time, it may be time to ask to move to a new department. A change of environment or scenery alone will reset your mood and work performance. Discuss this with your supervisor, outlining your strengths and how you can contribute to a new team. - Take a vacation.
Even a short vacation of one week can give you time to recharge. Consider a “staycation” where you can relax and do the things you enjoy most. Turn off your work phone, avoid email, and put away your office papers. - Use your free time wisely.
Pick up old hobbies you used to love. Get out of the office and do something fun. Use your time outside of the office for anything but work! At the end of every day, turn off your phone and use the evening to recharge and be ready for the next day.
Experiencing burnout can happen to anyone. Don’t know the signs of burnout? Here’s a list of signs to watch out for.