Your job can be demanding and overwhelming at times, you might realise that your personal issues are weighing down on you so badly that you have little capacity to handle work.
It might just be that you need a break to rekindle yourself, after all, nothing can really work 100% if your body and mind are burnt out. When defining burnout, the online publication, Mind Tools, describes it as a condition of continuous involvement with emotionally taxing circumstances that results in physical, emotional, and mental tiredness.
The publication above also states common causes that lead to someone being burned out at work, they are as follows:
- Having uncertain objectives or work requirements.
- Working in a group or company that is dysfunctional.
- Being overburdened with tasks.
- Receiving little to no assistance from your employer or group.
- Not getting paid for the labour you do.
- Doing repetitive or low-stimulation tasks.
Take a look at effective techniques that you can utilise to make your work life productive while having your mental health intact.
Have boundaries: According to Indeed, being the type of person who enjoys doing favours for other people, commonly referred to as a people-pleaser, may result in workplace burnout.
The publication encourages you to learn to say no when it comes to your health. “Be as diplomatic as you can. You may ask one of your co-workers to take up the task in your place or send your manager the work request so they can assign it to someone else.” It is also advised that you talk openly with your management about your workload if they are the ones requesting more work from you.
Keep your work at work: Individuals on the verge of burnout frequently bring their work home with them, states Indeed. “They also absorb the strain and tension of the workplace when they act in this way. If you engage in this frequently, it may not only be harmful to your mental health but also cause stress in your household.” Therefore, the publication suggests that your house must be a haven of solace and warmth. Keep that area safe and leave the stresses of the office behind.
Balance your tasks: The Positive Psychology publication believes that transitioning to a less complex activity after providing something highly demanding (cognitively, emotionally, or physically) could be helpful. “Changing up your daily, weekly, or monthly duties can be a great way to rebalance and give yourself a rest.”
Take mental and physical breaks: The publication mentioned above states that taking breaks is just as important as taking continuous action when you are busy. It is advised that in your free time, you engage in activities like breathing exercises, talking to a friend, listening to music, or reading a book. “In the end, taking care of yourself will improve your performance and is essential to your overall welfare.” It is also suggested that you take time to relax by breathing deeply or going for a walk when you are most tense or nervous.
Sleep enough: The Mayo Clinic states that you should rest for a while because sleep improves well-being and helps in maintaining good health.
Practice mindfulness: “Mindfulness is being aware of what’s going on inside you and around you without judging or reacting.” According to the above-mentioned clinic, you can handle what’s happening at work with the support of this technique.
Also see: This is how procrastination is a mental health issue
