Have you got enough in the tank?

It’s common to see colleagues and loved ones who appear consistently overwhelmed with the unrelenting demands of life, yet continue to push through in the hopes that something will change. In today's post-pandemic world, stress and anxiety in the workplace is increasing, and while we've all experienced periods of feeling overwhelmed, what happens when this stress becomes chronic and unmanageable?

Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stress factors. It's common for leaders to power through periods of exhaustion, feeling a responsibility to serve and support their team positively. However, the pressure, isolation, and weight that come with being in a leadership role can become overwhelming and cause detachment and reduced efficiency that can have a ripple effect throughout an entire workplace.

As a coach I often come across the signs and symptoms of burnout – here are some you may recognise:-

"I have always been an ambitious, motivated individual but now I'm questioning what it’s all about"

"The organisation I joined years ago is not the same as it was, everything seems harder and it’s draining me".

"There are not enough hours in the week to get everything done and my wellbeing is taking a hit"

"I work harder to please others rather than taking care of my family"

"Simple things are requiring more effort and I'm losing my mojo."

If any of these sound familiar, it's important to take action before things get worse.

Obvious actions can include taking time off work to rest and recharge, and prioritizing self-care activities such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.

Seeking professional help such as coaching can also be an effective strategy for managing burnout, as it can help individuals identify the root causes of their burnout and develop a plan of action to address those causes, and prevent it from recurring.

Burnout is a serious problem that can have long-lasting effects on mental and physical health. By recognizing the early signs and taking action, individuals can regain control of their work and personal life. Remember, it's okay to ask for help and prioritize well-being, as this will ultimately benefit both the individual and the organization in the long run.