You’re a structural engineer. How can you keep burnout at bay?

1 Set realistic goals

One of the causes of burnout is feeling overwhelmed by unrealistic or unclear expectations. You may feel pressured to take on more work than you can handle, or to deliver results faster than possible. To avoid this, you need to set realistic and specific goals for yourself and your projects. Break down large tasks into smaller and manageable steps. Prioritize the most important and urgent ones. Communicate your goals and progress to your team, managers, and clients. Learn to say no or negotiate when you are assigned too much work or unrealistic deadlines.

2 Manage your time

Another cause of burnout is poor time management. You may feel like you are constantly running out of time, or that you are not using your time effectively. To improve your time management, you need to plan your schedule and stick to it. Use tools like calendars, timers, and apps to organize your tasks and track your hours. Avoid distractions and interruptions that waste your time and energy. Delegate or outsource tasks that are not essential or within your expertise. Set boundaries and limits on your availability and workload. Make time for breaks, rest, and leisure.

3 Balance your work and life

A third cause of burnout is lack of work-life balance. You may feel like you are neglecting your personal needs, interests, and relationships because of your work. To achieve a better balance, you need to separate your work and life domains. Avoid bringing work home or checking work-related emails or messages outside of work hours. Create a dedicated workspace and a comfortable home environment. Establish a regular routine and a healthy lifestyle. Include activities that make you happy and relaxed, such as hobbies, exercise, meditation, or socializing.

4 Seek support and feedback

A fourth cause of burnout is isolation and lack of feedback. You may feel like you are working alone or without recognition or appreciation. To overcome this, you need to seek support and feedback from others. Connect with your colleagues, mentors, and peers who share your challenges and goals. Join professional associations, networks, or communities that offer resources, opportunities, and advice. Ask for feedback on your work and performance from your managers, clients, and stakeholders. Seek help or guidance when you face difficulties or uncertainties.

5 Keep learning and growing

A fifth cause of burnout is boredom and stagnation. You may feel like you are not learning or developing new skills or knowledge. To avoid this, you need to keep learning and growing as a structural engineer. Pursue continuing education, certification, or training that enhance your qualifications and competencies. Explore new trends, technologies, or methods that improve your efficiency and creativity. Seek new challenges, projects, or roles that expand your scope and experience. Celebrate your achievements and milestones.

Burnout is a serious and common problem among structural engineers. It can affect your productivity, quality, and satisfaction. By following these tips, you can prevent or cope with burnout and maintain your passion and performance as a structural engineer.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?