Understanding Burnout

Burnout is real. It’s one of the biggest roadblocks that high-achievers experience and should keep an eye on. Understanding burnout is the key to protecting yourself!

What is Burnout?

Burnout is described as a state of chronic stress. Typically, if left to grow out of control, it leads to physical and emotional exhaustion, cynicism and detachment, and feelings of lack of accomplishment. More often than not, those who are in the throes of burnout become unable to perform professionally. That said, it does not happen all of a sudden. Our body gives us plenty of warnings – and if we know these signs, we can recognize burnout before it’s too late.

Symptoms and Signs of Burnout

There are a number of symptoms associated with burnout. Some people who expereince burnout may experience loss of enjoyment, pessimism, isolation, detachment, irritability, lack of productivity, and feelings of hopelessness. Additionally, the physical and emotional symptoms include:

• Chronic fatigue
• Insomnia
• Forgetfulness
• Chest pain
• Palpitations
• Shortness of breath
• Gastrointestinal pain
• Dizziness and fainting
• Compromised immune function
• Loss of appetite
• Mental illness like anxiety, depression, and anger

Stress vs Burnout

Burnout may be the cause of chronic stress, but it isn’t the same as too much stress.

• Over-engagement characterizes stress. Additionally, overreactive emotions loss of energy and urgency are also symptoms of stress. Often, stress can cause physical damage, anxiety disorders, and may even kill people prematurely.
• Disengagement, blunted emotions, helplessness, and hopelessness are all symptoms of burnout. Likewise, signs of burnout also include loss of motivation and hope, and detachment and depression. Unlike stress, burnout causes emotional damage and makes life seem not worth living.

Causes of Burnout

There are many different causes of burnout syndrome. Likely, those who experience burnout have perfectionist attitudes, low expectations of competency, pronounce need for harmony, and belief that they are being controlled from the outside. Burnout often stems from your job, having too many responsibilities or doing stressful work.

Burnout Treatment

Ultimately, the best way to treat burnout is to make a change in lifestyle. Take inventory of your emotions and all of the situations that make you feel negative. Determine ways to reduce stress and implement them into your routine. Next, take time to say no, delegate responsibilities, and take breaks between big projects. It’s important to socialize and find support! Time for yourself to overcome burnout.

Burnout Prevention

To avoid burnout, follow these tips:

• Work with purpose
• Take control and manage your time
• Get exercise
• Practice self-care and mindfulness
• Unplug
• Know your breaking point
• Schedule free time

Understanding Burnout

Understanding burnout is key to stopping it from happening! If you find that you’re experiencing these symptoms, don’t be afraid to take a step back and unplug. Of course, finding a workplace that highlights employee motivation and satisfaction is part of the process too! At Colossus, we place company culture at the forefront in order to keep our employees happy. To learn more about careers at Colossus, visit the career page on our site.