Is Burnout Avoidable? 5 Ways to Stay Motivated
Burnout is on the rise – and reaching frighteningly high levels.
In fact, a recent Indeed survey of 1,500 U.S. workers shows that:
- 52% of respondents are experiencing burnout in 2021 (up from 43% pre-COVID).
- Certain demographics are feeling it more than others. As a group, 7% more Baby Boomers are reporting burnout now (compared to before the pandemic), and the percentage of Gen-Exers reporting burnout jumped 14% over the same time period.
But just because job burnout is common, that doesn’t mean it’s unavoidable. With the right approach, you can find effective ways to renew your motivation and perform your best at work. Here are a few tactics to try:
1. Identify the source(s) of your burnout.
The first step in improving your situation is understanding the root cause of the problem. Spend some time reflecting to determine why you’re feeling depleted and/or unmotivated. Is it because you’re working from home – and can’t disconnect from work? Are you simply working too many hours? Are you overlooking aspects of your physical, psychological, and emotional wellbeing? These are just a few common culprits. While you may not be able to control every aspect of your life and work, try to identify – and focus your energy on changing – contributing factors that are at least partially within your control.
2. Seek support.
Whether you reach out to your immediate supervisor (or your staffing recruiter, if you’re working as a temporary associate), coworkers, friends, or loved ones, their support and collaboration may help you renew your enthusiasm and focus. Check to see if your employer offers an employee assistance program. If they do, explore the services available to you and take advantage of the relevant ones.
3. Appeal instead of complaining.
If you decide to have a conversation with your boss, set aside time for a conversation and prepare for success by:
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- Sticking to the facts. Resist the urge to point fingers at others.
- Explain the impact burnout is having on your work (as well as how it impacts others).
- Focusing on potential solutions. If you have ideas about changes that may help, bring them to the conversation.
- Be specific and gracious if you ask for something – whether it’s time off, work flexibility, or additional resources to meet the demands of your job.
- Create an action plan and schedule a date to review progress.
4. Read our blog.
We’ve written extensively about how to prevent job burnout and stay motivated at work. Get more tips here “Feeling Burned Out? Try These Strategies to Help” and here “5 Ways to Avoid Burnout and Re-Energize.”
5. Know when it’s time to talk to a recruiter.
If the steps you’ve taken to alleviate job burnout don’t improve your situation, it might be time to make a change. If you’re ready to explore your options, PrideStaff can help you find a great new job. Join our Talent Community, search local jobs or apply with PrideStaff today.
