What is burnout?

 

a) “A state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by long term involvement in emotionally demanding situations.”

 

b) “A state of fatigue or frustration brought about by devotion to a cause, way of life, or relationship that failed to produce the expected reward.”

 

Specific symptoms of burnout include:

• Having a negative and critical attitude at work.
• Dreading going into work, and wanting to leave once you’re there.
• Having low energy, and little interest at work.
• Having trouble sleeping.
• Being absent from work a lot.
• Having feelings of emptiness.
• Experiencing physical complaints such as headaches, illness, or backache.
• Being irritated easily by team members or clients.
• Having thoughts that your work doesn’t have meaning or make a difference.
• Pulling away emotionally from your colleagues or clients.
• Feeling that your work and contribution goes unrecognized.
• Blaming others for your mistakes.
• Thinking of quitting work, or changing roles.

 

This week we want YOU to examine the concept of burnout and make sure you don’t become burnt out yourself. Check out our challenge and tips to see how you can avoid it.