HOW TO AVOID BURNOUTS IN THE WORKPLACE
Burnout, a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress, has taken the corporate America world by storm. Within the US, the average working adult spends one-third of their time at work, leaving a lack of time for personal enjoyment and care.
Causes of Burnout Include, But Aren’t Limited to:
Lack of control (schedule, decisions, assignments, workload, etc.)
Unclear job expectations
Dysfunctional or hostile work environments
Monotonous/chaotic projects that struggle to retain focus
Lack of social support
Overall work-life imbalance
Workplace suicides are rising at an 11% increase just between 2017 to 2018, however, with proper care and attention towards healthy lifestyle habits, four of the five top causes of deaths are avoidable.
Symptoms of Burnout Include, But Aren’t Limited to:
Cynical emotions
Irritable or impatient with co-workers, clients, etc.
Lack of energy to be productive
Difficulty concentrating
Lack of satisfaction from achievements
Using food, alcohol, or drugs to feel better or not feel
Change in sleep habits
Experiencing unexplained headaches, bowel problems, or other physical problems
If getting to work and getting started is a struggle
Note: If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is best to consult a doctor or mental health expert, as you may be experiencing job burnout or other serious health conditions.
How can one avoid experiencing burnout? Although this answer is personally unique, there are several avenues for the average working adult and company managers to utilize and benefit from.
Steps Individuals Can Take to Avoid Burnout:
Evaluate your feelings of burnout and attempt to identify potential causes
Evaluate alternative options with your employer to find a compromise (i.e.: expectations, projects, timelines)
Find a relaxing or enjoyable activity/hobby that clears your mind
Exercise/engage in physical activity
Implement 7-9 hours of nightly sleep to your schedule
Practice mindfulness and meditation
Take given vacation days
Alter notification settings to turn off unnecessary pings when off the clock
Set boundaries
Reach out to coworkers, loved ones, HR, or managers for support
A Call on Companies:
Create open communication between managers and employees
Implement on-site health and wellness programs
Create realistic goals and expectations
Encourage a healthy work-life balance through availability boundaries
Value and encourage vacation time use
Give breaks through team bonding activities, early off days, team lunches, on/off site retreats
Promote engagement
The increase in burnouts were one of numerous reasons as to why Adventure Architects originated. Our services highlight team member’s personal strengths as well as the importance of teamwork and effective communication, where every member feels comfortable sharing their challenges or personal needs. If you’re interested in booking or developing a unique team building activity with us, contact us here!
We hope this post creates reflection on your work-life balance and a check-in on how your team has been communicating. After all, everyone deserves an ADVENTUROUS and more mindful personal life!
