Burned out? Try this...

We all get burned out, but what if we didn't?  Would we be more productive, achieve more goals, make more money, have the #1 team, be a top performer, be the best parent...Today I'll show you a tool to prevent burnout.

Last week I introduced Flexture, which means creating a structure at the beginning, then introducing flexibility overtime.  

The key to reducing burnout is to be decisive and determine where and how you will introduce flexibility.  This is what I call your "Flexture Point" (FP).

Examples:

1. I'm trying to lose 10 lbs in 2 weeks.  After 6 days of strictly following the eating and exercise  routine, I will allow myself to have some flexibility the next week.  My Flexture Point is 6 days of strictly following the routine.
2. I plan on running 4 laps.  I run the first 3 full out and the last lap I have flexibility - I can run faster or switch it up.  My Flexture Point is 3 laps and the flexibility helps me avoid burnout.
3. My new hires will use a script verbatim until they get 10 sales.  Then they have the flexibility to make it their own.  Our Flexture Point is 10 sales.
4. All new people will work 8am-4pm until they hit quota 3 months in a row.  Then they have freedom to have an approved flex schedule.  Our Flexture Point is hitting quota 3 months in a row.
5. My kids must complete 2 lessons on ABCMouse.com, prior to having the flexibility to play other games.  As they play ABCMouse.com more and engage with the program, I introduce more flexibility.  This way they can't wait to play it instead of being forced as part of a structure.  The 2 lessons are my initial Flexture Point.

Wins:

• When everyone knows the Flexture Point, expectations are clear and productivity goes up.
• Guaranteed flexibility to avoid micro-management, and burnout.
• Incentive to work hard within the structure to enjoy the benefits of flex-time.

Make sure to...

• Decide on a clear and consistent Flexture Point.  We are more productive when we know what to expect on a consistent basis.
• Set expectations for your structure (Expectations for yourself, a team, for students, kids, athletes, etc.).  Then make a stark difference between the structured and the flex time (e.g. Once your rep hits 100% for the week, they can work on any side project that goes toward their career development goals - coaching/training/leadership, etc.)

Burnout decreases as you introduce flexibility.  Take time to test  various Flexture Points to find that sweet spot that eliminates burnout and increases productivity and engagement.

Share your reaction with BEAR Nation: Or Post your comment here on LinkedIn:

How do you see the Flexture Point helping you decrease burnout?

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Thanks,

Dwight