Burning Yourself Out Won't Make You a Better Employee—or Person

Burnout is often defined as a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged stress. It goes beyond just feeling tired or worn out—it's when functioning becomes difficult, tasks you once enjoyed no longer interest you, and you’re constantly overwhelmed. For me, burnout was a wake-up call, one that led me to leave the corporate finance world. I had made the decision that after my time in New York, I would start fresh, beginning with a move to the UK.

Many people ask why I left such a lucrative career. I had good money, frequent travel, and the high-adrenaline rush that came with big decisions. But was it enough? For some, perhaps. But for me, everything has an end, and burnout came to confirm that. I reached a point where I couldn’t even focus on a page with numbers—my brain simply refused. It was one of the hardest moments in my life because changing a fast-paced lifestyle is no easy feat. It took years to recover fully. I do miss the adrenaline sometimes, but I don’t miss the long hours, stress, and anxiety that came with it.

Recognizing Burnout: Symptoms and Signs

Burnout can creep up slowly, but it often presents itself with physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced performance. Here are some signs to watch out for:

• Constant fatigue, even after rest
• Difficulty focusing and decreased productivity
• Irritability or frustration with tasks you once enjoyed
• Feeling disengaged or disconnected from work
• Physical symptoms like headaches or stomach problems

How Employees Can Help Themselves

1. Set Boundaries: Don’t be afraid to say no or set limits on work that extends beyond your capacity. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal time.
2. Prioritize Self-care: Regular exercise, meditation, or simply taking breaks throughout the day can help recharge your mind and body.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Learning how to be present in the moment can reduce feelings of being overwhelmed. Whether it's through meditation or mindful breathing, it can significantly reduce stress.
4. Open Communication: If you're feeling overwhelmed, talk to your manager or HR. Opening up about stress is the first step to finding solutions.
5. Unplug Regularly: In a hyper-connected world, sometimes stepping away from work emails or notifications during personal time can help prevent burnout.

How Employers Can Support Their Teams

1. Flexible Working Hours: Offering flexible hours or remote work options can help employees manage work-life balance better.
2. Encourage Time Off: Make sure employees are taking their vacations and using personal days to truly rest and recharge.
3. Wellness Programs: Implement mental health days, physical wellness programs, or even regular check-ins with employees to ensure they are supported.
4. Provide Access to Counseling: Offering professional counseling or mental health services can be vital for employees struggling with stress or burnout.
5. Create a Culture of Transparency: Encouraging open communication between employees and management fosters trust and allows issues to be addressed before they lead to burnout.

Burnout is a reality that many professionals face, but by recognizing it early and taking steps toward self-care and support, both employees and employers can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment.

Thank you

Nadia