Workplace Burnout: What to Look for, What to Do, and What to Avoid

What exactly is workplace burnout, and what can you do about it?
 
Burnout is more common in the information technology workforce than you might think. The online career advice experts at The Muse provided some eye-opening stats:
 
An August 2021 Talkspace survey of 1,000 workers revealed that a staggering 52% were experiencing burnout. That burnout was affecting their sleep, increasing stress levels, causing physical health problems, and making them short-tempered.
 
That’s too many unmotivated, stressed-out workers!
 
So what can you do to recognize and avoid workplace burnout? There are several simple steps you can take to prevent workplace burnout and stress. So let’s get started.
 
Recognize the symptoms
 
Some level of stress-induced fatigue is inevitable in the workplace. Project deadlines, busy seasons, lack of resources, and other factors can lead to symptoms of burnout. Leadership needs to keep a diligent eye on the potential for these conditions to solidify as the norm.
 
When burnout becomes a permanent condition, it becomes a serious problem in the workforce.
 
Let your team lead know if you’re feeling overwhelmed and need some PTO. If you’re having trouble sleeping or experiencing physical health issues like headaches and anxiety, it’s time to take some time off.
 
Look for challenges and set boundaries
 
We talked about relieving work-related stress and maintaining healthy work habits in several previous posts. Staying engaged in your work is critical, but you also need to set accessibility boundaries and maintain your personal life without work-related interruptions.
 
Too much of the same routine can become monotonous and often leads to burnout. Approach your team lead and ask if you can temporarily change your job responsibilities, join a new team, or learn a new skill.
 
It might also be time for a change of scenery with a new employer.
 
Set realistic expectations
 
The phenomenon of workplace burnout is real. Some levels of temporary fatigue and job-related stress can be considered normal. If these levels become the norm and your management team doesn’t seem concerned, it may be time to explore new employment opportunities.
 
If you’re burned out and decide you need to make a job change, engage with a recruiter. Don’t make the mistake of jumping at the first opportunity. Make some decisions and form a plan.
 
No matter your experience or skill level, the team at mCubed is committed to finding you your next great career opportunity.
 
Call us today at (248) 817-2243, or get in touch online. Our expert recruiters are waiting for your call.