Recognizing Burnout Symptoms- It might not be as easy as you think!

Have you ever felt stuck? , like you couldn't get anything done (or so you thought)?

There seems to be more obstacles working against progress. You're NOT alone!! I felt like I wasn't contributing at the highest level (or at average quality really!).

I was becoming cynical and having a negative outlook on my job and then irritated that it was impacting my history of problem solver, pace setter and my terminally positive outlook. I felt helpless to getting out of my own way.

What was going on? Well I thought for sure I had been in the role TOO long, the constant change (the one consistent in my jobs is change, this wasn't new) and shifting priorities were finally taking a toll.

Looking back, what I was going through was serious, it was burnout. But why didn't I recognize this with all the training, coaching and personal work I've done? How did my company not see it? How about my peers? My manager? I chose to leave the role I loved, but could I have stayed in my role and regained the passion for the work, the team and the company?

I think the answers to these questions are a resounding YES! And at a time when LOTS of people are changing jobs, I can't help but think some of this may be due to burn-out!

First let's look at some of the symptoms of burn-out you might not know:

Physical signs:

• Feeling tired and draining a lot of the time

• Frequent headaches

Emotional signs:

• Sense of failure or self-doubt

• Feeling helpless, trapped or defeated

• Decreased sense of accomplishment or satisfaction

Behavioral signs:

• Increased alcohol/food consumption

• Procrastination

• Decreased productivity and lack of interest

Recognizing these and similar symptoms in ourselves, peers, leaders, friends, children we can help develop a plan to address and reframe to reduce stress and burnout that can lead to regained commitment, joy and passion at work!

Once you've recognized some of these signs it's time to take action. These likely won't surprise you, but they could make a HUGE difference if recognized early.

• Share your struggles with a trusted friend or colleague

• Reframe how you look at your job/work/company and adjust your thinking toward the positive

• Spend time reevaluating your priorities, core values and say not to things not in alignment

• Start or get back to an exercise routine

• Adjust your diet and reduce or remove alcohol

Most importantly on this #WorldMentalHealthDay I want to highlight the importance of personal wellness and care, NEVER feel shame or weakness in asking for help, there are resources often within your health plan, in community groups or call the National Alliance on Mental health crisis line 800-273-TALK (8255).

Be Well.

Sara