by Karen Lim Yu Xiu

Burnout is a type of stress connected to the workplace that involves experiencing physical or emotional exhaustion. It goes beyond simply feeling slightly “stressed out.” If left unaddressed, burnout can manifest as emotional, mental, or even physical symptoms and have serious long-term effects. 

Some symptoms of burnout include:  

• Exhaustion: Feeling physically, emotionally, and mentally drained, even after taking a break. 
• Lack of motivation: Struggling to muster any enthusiasm for your work. 
• Cynical attitude: Becoming increasingly negative, cynical, or detached. 
• Irritability: Having a short temper and getting frustrated more easily. 
• Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing on tasks and being forgetful. 
• Decreased productivity: Getting less done than usual and having lower output. 

Fortunately, burnout is not a permanent state. There are many underlying causes of burnout, and treating it with a variety of approaches tends to be the most successful course of action. Here are some strategies to help you recover from burnout: 

1. Keep Your Emotions in Check:
   Emotions are closely related to burnout, and they can give us hints about the things that are important to us. Burnout can be avoided by early detection and treatment of resentment, frustration, and disappointment.
2. Cultivate Interests Outside of Work:
   While burnout is typically work-related, your overall physical and mental well-being impacts your work’s liveliness. Hobbies and interests promote work-life balance and help manage stress and feelings of frustration with work.
3. Build Relationships with People:
   One of the main reasons for burnout is a lack of community. Develop relationships with your loved ones who can provide emotional support, access to resources, and a sense of belonging, making it easier to ask for help when needed.
4. Maintain Your Physical Well-Being:
   Burnout is a stage where self-care is neglected. Ensure you meet your basic needs, including social connection, exercise, healthy food, and water. In addition, monitor your sleep schedule if you have a long day, as a good night’s sleep enhances brain performance, mood, and overall health.
5. Ask for Help:
   Unmet demands and rigorous workloads can lead to burnout. To overcome these difficulties, seek the help and support of your loved ones, coworkers, and managers. After all, you’re only human, and there’s only so much you can do.

By practicing these steps and making your wellness a priority, you will be on your way to improving your quality of life. Taking proactive measures to address and prevent burnout not only enhances your work performance but also contributes to your overall happiness and health. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity for a fulfilling and productive life. 

Source:

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