How to prevent WORKPLACE BURNOUT
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As we move beyond the pandemic, it’s clear that workplace burnout is still a major issue for employees and organisations. The past couple of years have taken a toll on people’s emotional, physical and mental resources, making it harder to separate work and home life, and resulting in a greater risk of burnout. But there’s hope. By understanding the underlying causes of burnout, and implementing strategies for self-awareness and vertical growth, we can create a healthier, more productive work environment.
First, let’s define what we mean by burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It’s characterised by feelings of cynicism, detachment and a lack of accomplishment. In the worst cases, burnout can lead to depression, anxiety and even physical health problems.
What causes burnout?
One of the biggest factors is a lack of control. When employees feel like they don’t have a say in how they do their work, or lack support and recognition, they’re more likely to experience burnout. Those who feel like their efforts aren’t valued or don’t get the help they need are also more likely to become disengaged and burnt out. Additional causes can include dysfunctional workplace dynamics, work-life imbalance and more. So, how can we prevent burnout?
In addition to engaging in stress-reducing activities, seeking support and taking a break, one of the most effective strategies is to focus on vertical growth. Vertical growth involves both downward and upward growth. We see downward (vertically) into our unconscious patterns of thought and behaviour, and learn to deal with them with awareness and patience. The more we do this, the more we increase our ability to grow upward in the direction of our values, aspirations and ideals.
In short, with vertical growth, we explore downward in ourselves to resolve unhealthy patterns and grow upward into our best selves. By taking time to observe negative, self-sabotaging behaviours that are holding you back personally and professionally, you can learn how to overcome them long-term. For example, you may learn to set healthy boundaries and say no to tasks that are beyond your capacity or don’t align with your goals. It’s an “insideout” job rather than an “outside-in” job.
Baby blues are feelings of sadness you may experience after having a baby. Although it differs across countries, it’s very common to experience the baby blues. However, it’s estimated that between 10 and 20 percent of mothers are affected by the more serious condition postnatal depression, and in very rare instances the even more severe postpartum psychosis. The onset of postnatal depression occurs within six weeks of giving birth, although it can emerge up to a year after the baby is born.