5 Strategies for Burnout
The Mid-Day Struggle
If you find yourself in the midst of a mid-day doom scroll, attempting to break up the monotony of your work routine, you've come to the right place. It's likely that you're feeling overwhelmed by your daily responsibilities, and perhaps you're questioning the grand promise of hustle culture – the idea that hard work would ultimately lead to a life you love. While hard work has its merits, there's also a significant cost to your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, often resulting in the symptoms of burnout.
While burnout isn't a medical diagnosis, it's accurately defined by the Mayo Clinic as "a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity." If this definition resonates with your experience, it's crucial to understand that it's not your fault. There are many work-related factors beyond your control that have brought you to this point, such as a lack of control over job duties, misalignment of personal and company values, excessive workload, inadequate compensation, and unfair company policies.
Facing Burnout
Now, you might be feeling frustrated and wondering, "What can I do about something that seems out of my control?" While everyone's circumstances are unique, there are steps you can take. I'll list them below, with the acknowledgment that what works for some may not work for all.
Here are five effective strategies to manage burnout:
Identify the Source: Begin by pinpointing the source of your burnout. Is it related to any of the factors mentioned above?
Explore Your Options: If a toxic work environment is the root cause, consider looking for another job or exploring self-employment. Determine what you need to feel comfortable making such a change, and be prepared to set boundaries during interviews for new positions. If leaving your current job isn't an option, advocate for your needs with upper management, whether it's reducing your workload or receiving better compensation.
Adjust Expectations: Grant yourself permission to adapt your expectations around productivity and establish boundaries for your work-life balance. It's perfectly acceptable to limit your efforts to fulfill the requirements of your position without going above and beyond, especially if you're not adequately compensated.
Make Space for Joy: Carve out more room in your life for activities that bring you joy. This may involve revisiting childhood interests or trying something entirely new. Prioritize what you've been wanting to explore for years.
Seek Support: Reach out for support from friends, family, colleagues, or health and wellness professionals. Don't hesitate to let others know that you're struggling. Consider finding a mentor, joining a yoga class, or meeting with a therapist. Asking for help is a vital aspect of maintaining a balanced life.
I understand that these recommendations may not bring immediate, dramatic change, and they may be easier said than done. However, my hope is that I can be a small voice that reaffirms your inherent worth, encouraging you to prioritize self-care on your journey toward living a life you love.
