Recognising And Dealing with Burnout
As we find ourselves looking toward the 2nd quarter of the year, the early signs of burnout may already be starting to show, and as burnout initially takes root as stress, by losing our ability to manage stress and by not knowing when to seek help—or both—we put our health, personal relationships, and professional success at risk.
As a business coach, I am acutely aware of the toll that work, personal commitments, and societal expectations can take on professionals at all levels. Burnout remains a significant obstacle, yet with mindful attention and proactive strategies, we can foster a workplace that prioritises well-being and fosters sustainability.
The Difference Between Burnout and Stress:
Stress and burnout are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinctly different experiences with unique symptoms and implications. Stress typically manifests as heightened reactivity and irritability, accompanied by worry and anxiety, a racing heart, and insomnia among other things.
On the other hand, burnout is characterised by disengagement and numbness, coupled with feelings of apathy, brain fog, exhaustion, and a distinct lack of motivation.
While stress is a temporary response to external pressures, burnout is a more chronic condition resulting from prolonged exposure to stressors.
Recognising the distinction between the two is essential, particularly in the workplace, where burnout can have significant consequences for employee well-being and organisational success.
Recognising the Signs of Burnout
It's crucial to remain aware of and to recognise the signs—both in ourselves and in our teams. Burnout is not a badge of honour; it's a signal that something in the professional ecosystem requires attention.
1. Exhaustion: If you or your team members are constantly feeling drained, physically and emotionally, it's a red flag. The persistent sense of fatigue, even after adequate rest, is a common precursor to burnout.
2. Decreased Performance: Noticeable declines in performance may indicate that burnout is taking a toll.
3. Disengagement: When passion and enthusiasm wane, and individuals start to disengage from their work or team activities.
4. Physical Symptoms: Headaches, sleep disturbances, and other physical symptoms can manifest both mentally and emotionally.
Strategies for Managing Burnout
As leaders, it's our responsibility to foster a work environment that promotes well-being.
Here are some strategies to help manage burnout:
1. Encourage Open Communication:
Create a culture where team members feel comfortable discussing their workload and stress levels. Be in tune with the emotional well-being of your team.
2. Foster Work-Life Balance:
Set realistic expectations regarding work hours and deadlines, encourage breaks and vacation days.
3. Provide Professional Development Opportunities:
Offer opportunities for skills and personal development, as well as career growth.
4. Promote a Positive Workplace Culture:
Recognise and celebrate achievements, both big and small.
5. Implement Flexibility:
Consider flexible work arrangements or remote options when feasible.
6. Model Healthy Behaviours:
Lead by example in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
The Power of Resilience Coaching in the Face of Burnout
Burnout was only recognised by the WHO as a phenomenon in 2019, and as a result, we are seeing an increasing demand for resilience coaching to build individuals' capacity to withstand and overcome workplace challenges.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, managing disruptions effectively has become an important skill, particularly for individuals in organisations. Disruption can mean anything from personal upheavals, like relationship changes, and major life events like a relocation, to technological shifts and changes in team structure or systems. Success in powering through these disruptions depends on one's capacity to problem-solve, persevere, and most importantly, adapt.
When unexpected circumstances challenge our sense of control, there's often a dissonance between expectations and reality, prompting a drive to regain control. However, adaptation draws upon physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual resources, and when demand exceeds availability, individuals may exhibit unproductive behaviours, impacting personal well-being and organisational effectiveness.
Central to the effective management of challenges and change is resilience – “The ability to adapt and maintain or regain high levels of performance and well-being, amidst disruption and adversity” - Resilience Alliance
Resilience encompasses a set of characteristics, or "resilience muscles". Strengthening these characteristics through training and consistent, conscious practice not only benefits individuals but also organisations, fostering adaptability, productivity, and satisfaction.
Furthermore, while individual resilience is crucial, collective resilience within teams and organisations enables effective performance amidst change on a far bigger scale, ultimately enhancing the ability to navigate challenges and thrive in dynamic environments. By harnessing the skill of resilience, and flexing our resilience muscles through effective resilience coaching, we can develop the skills needed to navigate stressors effectively, and so prevent burnout.
Moving Forward
Let’s prioritise the mental and emotional well-being of ourselves and our teams. Burnout is not a sign of weakness, but a call to action. By recognising the signs, fostering open communication, and implementing strategies for a balanced and supportive workplace, we can navigate the challenges of year-end burnout together.
Resilience coaching presents a proactive approach to promoting employee well-being , enabling individuals and organisations to thrive in adversity. As the only South African resilience practice certified by the US-based Resilience Alliance, we at Caleo Consulting provide internationally recognised expertise to empower companies in building resilience from within.
Remember, a resilient and fulfilled team is the cornerstone of sustainable success. Connect with us and find out about our extensive Resilience Training program for corporate teams and individuals and build the team of your dreams with Caleo Consulting.