Conquering the Stages of Burnout
You know that feeling of impending doom and your heart racing while being exhausted, but you're freakishly awake? Yep, that's burnout.
Earlier in 2021, Forbes reported findings from a survey done by Development Dimensions International Inc. that found that nearly 60% of leaders reported they feel “used up” at the end of the workday, which is a major indicator of burnout.
Its no secret that burnout happens to be one of the main reasons why people leave jobs. You never think its going to happen when you first start a new role because things are so cheery and then you realized what you signed up for…
According to theburnoutqueen.com, There are 5 stages of burnout and trust me, you will feel the impact of every single one of them. The only way to navigate your way through burnout is to be armed with tools and resources for every stage.
Here are the stages:
The Honeymoon Phase
Onset of Stress
Chronic Stress
Burnout
Taking Action
Stage: Honeymoon
How to Conquer It: Keep everything in check
In the beginning, everything is new and shiny, you’re learning new things and so excited about your role, much like a relationship, this is the honeymoon stage. The only way to conquer this stage is to keep everything in perspective. Why did you take this job? Make a list of goals to achieve in your first 90 days.
PRO TIP: Use the SMART method to create your 90 day goals. Make sure they are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely.
Stage: Onset of Stress
How to Conquer It: Find an Outlet
This is the stage when the stress starts to hit and you start to lack focus. To conquer this stage make sure you are practicing self-care and find an outlet to channel your stress. Get back to the basics - drink your water, stay active, but also remember to do something you love.
Stage: Chronic Stress
How to Conquer It: Take a Vacation
If there was ever a time to use your vacation time, this is it. This stage is when you start to second guess your role, the company, sometimes your whole career. Do not go down this rabbit whole. You need to step away to refocus the big picture. Your job could very well be a toxic environment, but you need to gain perspective. Preferably with a cocktail...AND on a beach far, far away…
Stage: Burnout
How to Conquer It: Create a Life Outside of Work
Burnout is one of the worst feelings in the world. The very thing that once invigorated you now because something you loathe. So again, you need perspective. You need something that inspires you outside of the office that can keep you going. Family, friends and the life you create for yourself matters more than any job.
Stage: Taking Action
How to Conquer It: Tap into Your Resources
When you find yourself in a deep depression and sad more often than not, it is time to get help. If you find yourself lost and falling into depression due to burnout, I implore you to look into these options:
Get a therapist - Personally, I think a therapist is a great thing with or without burnout, but that is another conversation for a different day..
Look into your company’s EAP Program - if offered, this company offers great resources to navigate tough times at work
New Job - it may be that your are in a toxic workplace, a change of environment might be just what you need.
Career Change - If you’ve exhausted your love for your current industry, think about what other careers might bring you fulfillment.
Final Word:
We work incredibly hard in our careers. We give time and deviation to our work and we love it, but sometimes the job does not love us back. Just like any relationship, Tap back into your reason and your purpose. In fact, your job may have led you to your purpose, but when it becomes toxic, DO NOT be afraid to take a step back and take care of you.
