Burnout and work

Understanding Burnout at work and how to cope with it

Burnout, in simple terms, is an extreme amount of exhaustion and fatigue someone might feel after going through prolonged stress. Anything that can overwhelm you physically, emotionally, or mentally can lead to burnout.

People in certain occupations, like emergency services and healthcare, are more prone to burnout. This is because they are expected to provide immediate services during disasters and are constantly exposed to sensitive and stressful situations. Other than them, people who are overworked, underpaid, and under appreciated at work are also prone to burnout.

?Common causes of burnout ??

1?? Unreasonably high workload:

Signing up for more than you can manage, be it in your personal or professional life, negatively affects your emotions. If you constantly have an incomplete to-do list to get back to, sooner or later, it will result in fatigue and burnout.

2?? Multitasking for longer periods:

When you multitask for extended periods, you are using up a lot of your mental resources in one go without stopping to recharge. The more consumed you are with your work, your energy resources will deplete faster.

?3?? Poor work-life balance:

When you are always working by the clock, you might not have enough time to practice self-care or slow down and enjoy things that bring you joy. You might not even get enough time to talk to or spend with your loved ones, which can cost you your well-being.

?Here are a few helpful ways to cope with burnout from work ??

?1. Do something for your soul ??

Often, we only do things that are good for our bodies. But it's also important to do things you can pour your soul into. This could be something that lets you connect with yourself or feel more joyous and present. You can try out singing, dancing, watching the sunrise or sunset, going for walks every day, reading something for fun, or learning a new language or instrument. Basically, anything outside of work that you like to do and that sparks joy. These activities can help you balance what you "need" to do and what you "like" to do.

?2. Spend time with your loved ones ??

One of the most helpful ways to deal with burnout is to spend time with your loved ones. If you feel stressed or overwhelmed, you can reach out to your family members and discuss what's bothering you. If you prefer not sharing certain things (which is completely okay, by the way), you can do something fun together, like playing board games, listening to music, or cooking. These activities will help you bond with your loved ones and keep you from feeling alone or isolated.

?3. Journal regularly ??

Journaling is a great way to explore the depths of your concerns. You can also use journaling prompts available over the internet or choose to write about the events that are going on at work or in your personal life. It offers a medium to freely express yourself without inhibitions and vent out in a safe space.

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