Are You Burned Out? What Are You Doing About It?

Are you feeling burned out at work?  

You are not alone. 

Research shows that a third of workers who responded to a survey say they have reached the brink. They blame too much to do and not having enough time to accomplish everything.

They admit to feeling that they need to keep their phones near them to respond to emails and texts as quickly as possible.  Almost two in five workers feel they are pressured to work more and harder.  

It also seems to worsen since the coronavirus changed our lives and forced more people to work from home. Nearly 60 percent say they have worked the equivalent of many additional days of work over the first few months of the virus. 

It’s not just older workers who admit to burnout. Close to 60 percent of Generation Z workers say they are burning out. And they aren’t even close to retirement relief.

So, despite the pressure you face, there are some things you can do. 

First of all, take that the unused vacation time. And, when you do go on vacation, stop responding to emails and urgent messages. Post an away message and find someone who can take care of any emergencies. 

Look for joy in your life, and find a hobby to change the focus of your daily work. Develop an exercise routine. If you need an adrenaline fix, climb a mountain. Or sit down and read a book. Do something to get your mind off work. 

Set aside time for a nap. Start with 8 hours of sleep a night. Then add a nap. A twenty-minute afternoon nap will ease your burnout. 

Learn and try meditation. You don’t need to become a Buddhist monk. Just take a few quiet minutes to clear your mind. Studies conducted at the University of Wisconsin demonstrated that the part of the brain that regulates stress and anxiety shrinks when meditation is practiced consistently.

While it’s tempting to go out after work with colleagues, find others to spend time with. Constant work talk won’t allow you to clear your head. Married?  How about a date night out?  Surprise your spouse by going out while leaving your work phone at home. 

Remember that stress is a significant contributor to many health conditions. So take it seriously.