Occupational burnout is an issue that’s more real than you think. The World Health Organization links it to long-term, unresolved, work-related stress. We are halfway through the year, and many people are already feeling a little tired, unmotivated and stressed.
Characteristics of occupational burnout
There are various ways to know if you’re nearing a point of burnout at your job. Burnout can leave people feeling exhausted, empty, and unable to cope with the demands of life. Take a look at a few symptoms that occupational syndrome can be characterised by:
- Feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion;
- Increased mental distance from one’s job;
- Feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one’s job;
- Reduced professional efficacy.
Maintaining a solid balance between work, social life, school and other facets of life can be challenging for many people. It is more profound in a world where we are constantly connected through our mobile devices and social media accounts. The pressure can be immense, which makes waking up each day much more difficult. Here are simple things to remember when it comes to staying motivated and beating off occupational burnout.
Five ways to beat occupational burnout
1. Do something you enjoy every day
We often tend to forgo the things we actually love to do for work. However, you need to constantly remind yourself that you matter most. Find ways to inject the things you love into your daily schedule. Watch your favourite TV show, listen to music, get a massage, spend time with someone who makes you laugh and eat your favourite dish. Doing something that brings you joy each day will do wonders for your health and overall mood.
2. Get enough sleep
Your brain and body can only recharge daily through adequate sleep. If you fail to get your average of eight hours of sleep, it will contribute to your lack of energy and exhaustion.
3. Maintain a healthy diet
Most people start the new year with resolutions to live better and get healthier. Much of these resolutions are often difficult to uphold. But as the year goes on, old habits resurface and they lose the motivation to continue with a set diet. One easy way to stick to a healthy diet is to prepare your meals for the week as much as you can over the weekend. Cook large meals and freeze them. Choose a cheat day. Prepare a daily snack and stick to a balance of protein, vegetables and carbohydrates. Most importantly, remember to drink plenty of water every day.
4. Prioritise taking a break
Whether its small breaks during work hours or that overdue holiday, make sure that you listen to your body when it’s time to take a break. Do not work or do anything in that break. Instead, focus on relaxation and recharging.
5. Remain as active as possible
Exercise releases endorphins, the feel-good drug in our bodies. Whether you take daily walks or runs, go to the gym, dance, play sports or practise yoga, remaining active will help you keep your stress levels under control.