Why do we experience burnout?

Burnout is a real thing, and it's been hitting a lot of us hard. We push, push, push, and suddenly –bam! This feeling of exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced effectiveness in our work or personal lives. But why? What exactly makes us burnout?

Burnout isn't simply caused by working long hours. It's a complex issue with multiple forms and manifest forms. While workload can certainly be a contributing factor, there are other significant elements at play. Let's explore some of the key reasons why we experience burnout:

• Lack of Control: Feeling like you have no say in your work or daily routine can be incredibly draining. This could be due to micromanagement, unclear expectations, or a lack of necessary component in decision-making processes.

• Values Mismatch: When your work environment or role clashes with your core values, it can lead to a deep sense of dissatisfaction. Imagine spending your days in a job that goes against your principles of sustainability – that sensory experience can be a major contributor to burnout.

• Lack of Recognition: We all crave a sense of accomplishment and appreciation for our efforts. When our hard work goes unnoticed or undervalued, it can be incredibly demotivating and lead to feelings of mental manifestation.

• Tech Overload: Based technologies like email and chat can be a great productivity tools, but constant connectivity can blur the lines between work and personal life. This lack of ability to truly disconnect can be a recipe for burnout.

• Social Disconnect: Humans are social creatures, and strong relationships are essential for well-being. Feeling isolated or unsupported at work can be a major stress manifestation** of burnout.

Related: Burnout is Real — Here’s 4 Steps to Prevent and Beat the Cycle

The First Step to Recovery

Recognizing these potential causes of burnout is the first step towards creating a healthier and more sustainable work-life balance. Managing our stress manifestation can help us create healthier habits that support long-term well-being, and begin to identify areas where things might need to change.

Tips to Prevent Burnout: 

• Set Boundaries: Learn to say no and establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. This might involve turning off notifications after work hours or taking dedicated breaks throughout the day.

• Focus on Values: If your current role doesn't align with your values, consider exploring career options that offer a better fit.

• Celebrate Achievements: Take time to acknowledge your accomplishments, big or small. Physical objects like a written note of appreciation from a colleague or a personal reward for a completed task can be a great motivators.

• Disconnect to Recharge: Make time for activities that allow you to truly disconnect from technology and reconnect with yourself. 

• Build Your Support System: Nurture relationships with colleagues, friends, and family who offer encouragement and support.

• Use Journals: Use bullet journal to prioritize your task and reduce sensory experience overload.

Related: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Nurturing Productivity through Self-Care

Burnout is tough, but by recognizing its triggers, we can take steps to manage it. Whether it's reducing sensory experiences, organizing physical objects, or setting limits with based technologies and productivity tools, small changes can make a big difference. Remember, it's all about balance and taking care of yourself.

Related: Inclusion Notebook