Are you more predisposed to burnout?

#burnout

In my experience as a psychotherapist, I've encountered clients struggling with burnout from my very first day. With a background in HR, I've often been selected to work with them due to my corporate experience.

Initially, I hesitated, stating that I wasn't specialized in burnout, but their response was clear: "You come from these workplaces, you understand what we're going through." It became apparent to me how much this understanding was needed.

Burnout is increasingly recognized as an organizational phenomenon, placing responsibility on corporations to cultivate a culture of wellness. However, in my observations, I've discerned distinct patterns among those who are more susceptible

So, who tends to be more predisposed to burnout?

In my practice of assisting individuals experiencing burnout, I've consistently observed a recurring pattern: regardless of the workplace, many clients encounter similar issues wherever they go. This observation stems from my own professional experience, and it's worth noting that it may not be documented in any published literature.

The categories mentioned in the article—such as Identity-Driven Individuals, Validation Seekers, and others—are provided for simplification and understanding purposes only. They are not meant to label or categorize individuals in a restrictive manner.

?? Identity-Driven Individuals

Some individuals prioritize work to an extent where it becomes a central aspect of their identity. Their professional roles hold significant importance, often intertwining with their sense of self. This strong identification with their careers can lead to overworking and neglecting other areas of life. They may struggle to differentiate themselves from their job roles, resulting in an imbalance that contributes to burnout. While the term "workaholic" is often used to describe this behavior, it may not fully capture the complexity of their relationship with work.

?? Overly responsible Individuals.

Individuals that are extremely responsible, always ensuring they fulfill their obligations and duties. They take life very seriously, often exhibiting perfectionist tendencies and striving to do everything right. Their perfectionistic tendencies drive them to strive for unattainable standards, resulting in chronic stress and anxiety. Despite their best efforts, they may feel like they're constantly falling short of expectations, leading to feelings of frustration and self-doubt. This perpetual cycle of striving for perfection can ultimately lead to burnout as they struggle to maintain an unsustainable pace.

?? Achievement-Driven Individuals.

Individuals who learned from an early age that their worth is tied to their achievements may develop a deeply ingrained belief that they must constantly prove themselves to be valuable. This mindset often leads to an unhealthy obsession with productivity and success, as they seek external validation to validate their sense of self-worth. Consequently, they may neglect their own well-being in pursuit of recognition and validation from others, perpetuating a cycle of burnout and dissatisfaction.

?? Compensation Seekers.

For those who use work as a means of compensating for other areas of their life, the pressure to excel professionally can become all-consuming. They may pour all their energy and effort into their career in an attempt to fill a void or distract themselves from underlying issues. However, this approach often backfires, leaving them feeling unfulfilled and depleted as they realize that success in their job does not necessarily translate to happiness or fulfillment in other areas.

?? Authority Figure Strugglers.

Some individuals find it challenging to assert themselves in the presence of authority figures, contributing to their susceptibility to burnout. They struggle to set boundaries or voice their needs, leading to overwork and stress. Despite experiencing high levels of dissatisfaction, they may feel powerless to address their concerns, perpetuating feelings of frustration and resentment towards their superiors. This difficulty in navigating power dynamics within the workplace can significantly impact their well-being and contribute to burnout. It's worth noting that while some literature suggests boundary issues and people-pleasing behaviors as primary factors in burnout, this perspective may overlook the significant role of authority figures in exacerbating workplace stress and contributing to burnout.

Which category resonates with you the most?