Posted by 5 stages of burnout
- Enthusiasm and a strong commitment
This stage entails experiencing early excitement about beginning a new career or role at work. Although the work may be demanding, you may see it as a challenge rather than a source of worry. The enthusiasm you feel surpasses the overwhelming demands of the workplace, making it simpler to do tasks that might otherwise be difficult or exhausting.
- Initiation of work stress
When your initial enthusiasm wears off, you may begin to recognise the challenge of your work or role. You may become aware of this while responding to overwhelming expectations or working long hours. Initially, you may be able to ignore the stress, but it soon becomes too difficult to ignore.
- Consistent stress
Stress is more common at this period than it was previously. Chronic stress can cause weariness, irritation, and a sense of loss of control. To cope with the continuous tension, you may start taking stimulants such as caffeine and energy drinks.
- Burnout
You may be completely unmotivated to do your responsibilities at this moment. You may struggle to control your stress and have a lesser tolerance for additional stressors. This can lead to physical and emotional problems, as well as decreased job satisfaction.
- Complete burnout
You may feel trapped in your employment at this point. This sensation can endure a long time and can lead to chronic emotional, mental, or physical issues that appear both inside and outside of the job. You might also notice a steady reduction in performance and a complete loss of vitality.
7 signs of work burnout
- Inadequate self-care
Individuals experiencing burnout often neglect themselves. They might skip meals or consume fast food instead of healthier options. These individuals may often adopt habits that prevent them from receiving adequate rest or exercise. They may also neglect their physical appearance or personal hygiene.
- Fatigue
Burnout strains the body, and an individual may find they are physically and emotionally drained. Even after a restful night of sleep, those who have developed it might still feel exhausted. This fatigue may affect their productivity, motivation and focus.
- Body aches
An individual may complain of headaches or stomachaches if they feel burnt out. These pains typically occur more frequently or last longer than when the individual doesn’t have to cope with stress. This might affect their concentration or influence them to take sick days, impacting their productivity.
- Negative outlook
Burnt-out individuals are more likely to anticipate unfavourable events than good ones. They can become pessimistic or believe they have no control over the adverse events that can happen. They might lack confidence in the people around them and distrust their abilities or understanding.
Related link: HOW TO PREVENT BURNOUT
- Obsessing over one’s challenges
Someone suffering from burnout may get fixated on their problems. As a result, they may struggle to overcome professional and personal challenges that others may find straightforward. They may get preoccupied with emotions of inadequacy, rendering them unable to respond to events effectively.
- Escapism
Professionals suffering from burnout may indulge in fantasies or acquire bad habits to cope with the situation. They may fantasise about abandoning their jobs, houses, and loved ones to start over in a new city or country. They may also spend hours delaying by watching television.
- Feeling of emptiness
A person suffering from burnout may frequently feel empty or numb. They no longer find the same delight in the things they used to do or the people they used to hang out with. They may also feel disconnected from situations that make others furious or sad.