Stress is one of our inherent physical states. A healthy shake-up in the form of an adrenaline rush is even useful. But if a person is constantly under stress, for example, at work, the body and mind cannot cope with such a load. Emotional reactions are inhibited, and diseases start to develop, which are often dangerous and chronic.
These symptoms are most characteristic of burnout. How dangerous this condition is can be judged by the fact that the burnout syndrome is recognized by the World Health Organization as a disease. But the good news is that burnout can and should be dealt with. In this article, we will tell you how to deal with burnout and win your life back.
How burnout differs from fatigue
This syndrome is dangerous because it can resemble fatigue. The only difference is the duration of this state. We all get tired at work. At the end of the week, you no longer want to get out of bed, go somewhere and solve problems. But over the weekend, after a proper rest, emotional and physical strength returns. This is fatigue.
With burnout, however, rest or even vacation is ineffective. Especially if the condition has been overlooked for a long time and became critical. In this case, you may even need the help of a professional.
Until things get this far, steps must be taken to prevent the condition from worsening.
Causes of burnout and methods of dealing with them
Few people think about the high price of workaholism. Therefore, at any step of climbing the career ladder, it makes sense to stop and think about how fulfilling your life is and whether it has a place for something else besides work.
Below are the causes of burnout and ways of dealing with them. If you attribute at least one of them to yourself, you might be at risk of burning out.
Striving to be always busy
People are so afraid of missing out on something at work and appearing under-productive that they make sure that their status on corporate networks is always green. They believe that the management will see and appreciate their readiness to start work immediately at any time of the day or night. The result is lack of sleep, constant emotional stress, and anxiety.
It is important to understand that every person who has a good rest and switches to other activities regularly is more productive and useful to their employer. Understand that mistakes made due to fatigue and inattention can cost you much more than a missed message.
Make plans for a good rest, walks, meetings with friends and spending time with your family after work. Do not take your phone with you, so there will be no temptation to check your mail every minute. It won't be easy at first, but the desire to be busy is like an addiction. Recovery begins with the first step.
Stress at work
A competitive environment, tight deadlines, and constant overtime all lead to chronic stress. Gradually, burnout begins.
Figure out what worries you the most. Is it the fear of dismissal or lack of understanding with superiors and colleagues? Once you discover the cause of your condition, you are already halfway there. Any relationship can be improved, and clarity can be brought to any situation.
The most effective way to get your life back
Reconsider your priorities along with your attitude to work specifically and to life in general. What do you really want: to get to the top as quickly as possible but harm your health, or to be healthy and happy but climb the corporate ladder more slowly? The answer to this question will determine whether burnout will engulf you sooner or later or you’ll manage to keep it at bay.
