Are you feeling burnt out at work? You’re not alone. Read on for how to get a better work-life balance and feel more happy and productive when you’re at work.
Aussies have some of the highest burnout rates in the world–61% compared to a global rate of 48%. Burnout is serious, and can lead to poorer mental and physical health for workers, economic impacts (including lost productivity due to more days off work), and higher workplace turnover.
Symptoms include: feeling less satisfied at work or like you’re accomplishing less, struggling to enjoy activities you normally like, feeling tired or drained, struggling to concentrate, taking longer breaks, feeling negative or cynical about work, or feeling isolated or disengaged.
Risk factors for burnout include:
- high-pressure environments
- working long hours, shift work, or overtime
- working through breaks or taking work home
- high stress or even trauma experienced while at work
- bullying and harassment from others, including co-workers and managers
- feeling insufficiently resourced, trained, or equipped
- feeling out of control
- a poorly defined work role or being burdened with responsibilities outside your normal workload
- not identifying with the values of your employer / organisation
- working in a helping profession such as health or education
How to cope with workplace burnout and achieve better work-life balance:
- Prioritise self-care–it’s not optional, and it’s definitely not selfish. Fit your own oxygen mask, then assist others.
- Set healthy boundaries around work–don’t check emails outside of work hours, consider not discussing work outside of hours, try not to take work home, and make sure you take your breaks.
- Take annual leave rather than letting it accumulate.
- Consider reducing your work hours or talking to a manager about your workload.
- Consider seeing a psychologist. A psychologist can help you set healthy boundaries around work, share stress management strategies and helpful tools like assertiveness training (which can help you express what you need in the workplace and also manage conflicts with co-workers), and explore your personal values to ensure you’re a good fit for your workplace and perhaps explore different work options if required.
To book an appointment with a clinician from our team, click here.