Why Are So Many People Suffering with 'Misalignment Burnout' (and what can we do about it)?

In today's fast-paced workplace, burnout is becoming as common as a morning cup of coffee, especially among the younger generations. A 2023 survey revealed that 59% of Americans are experiencing burnout, with 71% of Gen Z and 65% of millennials affected. This trend highlights a critical issue: misalignment burnout.

Understanding Misalignment Burnout

Imagine you’re trying to sail a ship, but the wind is constantly blowing against you. Misalignment burnout feels much the same – you’re putting in effort, but you’re always fighting against the current. This type of burnout happens when there is a disconnect between your job and your personal values. Instead of sailing smoothly towards your goals, you’re constantly battling the waves, leading to mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion. This misalignment, driven by external rewards like money or reputation rather than intrinsic motivation, can make you feel like you’re adrift, without a clear map to follow.

The Impact of Misalignment Burnout

Research from the Journal of Managerial Psychology shows that when employees feel aligned with their organisation and role, they are less likely to experience burnout. Misalignment, however, can turn your life upside down:

• Mental Health: It can lead to depersonalisation, where individuals become cynical and detached from their jobs, feeling ineffective and unaccomplished. This inner conflict can lead to stress, anxiety, depression, and panic attacks.
• Physical Health: Prolonged stress and mental health issues can compromise the immune system, causing fatigue, headaches, and illness.
• Work Performance: Misalignment reduces productivity, increases absenteeism and turnover, diminishes creativity and problem-solving skills, and adversely affects team dynamics and collaboration. It also negatively impacts work and personal relationships, leading to decreased job and life satisfaction.

Suggested Actions for Coaches and Consultants

Coaches and consultants play a vital role in helping individuals and organisations steer clear of these treacherous waters. Here are some actionable steps:

1. Unplug and Reconnect with Yourself

Encourage your clients to drop anchor and take a moment to assess where they are. This involves:

• Acceptance: Acknowledge the struggle and seek support from loved ones and professionals.
• Self-Care: Prioritize mental and physical health by getting enough sleep, following a healthy diet, and engaging in regular exercise.
• Self-Compassion: Practice meditation and journaling to reconnect with the inner self and release unrealistic expectations.

2. Embrace Your Nature and Purpose

Help your clients chart a new course by reflecting on their values and aligning their behaviour with what truly matters to them. Encourage them to:

• Define Priorities: Replace feelings of helplessness with clarity by identifying what happiness and stability mean to them.
• Set Goals: Help them dream and set goals, distinguishing between living with purpose and merely surviving.
• Make Choices: Plan and execute habits and behaviours that align with their objectives, breaking them down into manageable daily steps.

The Role of Team Climate

Understanding team climate is crucial in addressing misalignment burnout. A positive team climate, where goals/roles/processes are clear, and open communication, trust, and mutual support are prioritised, can help individuals feel more aligned with their roles. When team members can connect their everyday work with the overall purpose of the organisation, and feel understood, it fosters a sense of belonging and greatly reduces the likelihood of misalignment burnout.

Moving Forward with Purpose

Think of alignment as the compass guiding your clients through their professional journey. Helping them realign their work with their personal values ensures they’re not just surviving the storm but thriving in calm waters. By fostering self-awareness and intentionality, coaches and consultants can support their clients in achieving a balanced, purposeful life.

In a world where burnout is increasingly common, the role of alignment cannot be overstated. Let’s help our teams navigate these waters with clarity and confidence.

Discover more about the PCS approach to measuring team climate in your team at www.performanceclimatesystem.com