And, if you’re suffering burnout, it might be.
Work is tough these days.
Fewer people. Longer hours. There’s increased pressure to get your job – and probably what used to be somebody else’s – done.
Nine out of 10 employees polled by Right Management, the talent and career management expert within Manpower Group, say their workplaces are more stressful compared to five years ago.
Most people in the workforce have a day now and then when they dread going to work, said Bonnie L. Brown, LISW-CP, LPC, CEAP, and manager of the Employee Assistance Program at Greenville Health System.
But when that feeling persists day after day, it could lead to burnout.
And, yes, your job could actually be killing you. A recent study by researchers at Tel Aviv University determined job burnout could be worse for the heart than smoking.
What are some common reasons for stress in the workplace?
As many as one third of workers report their jobs are very or extremely stressful. Our perception of stress is impacted by both conditions at work and the attributes we bring to the workplace as unique individuals. Your job stress is less manageable when demands are excessive and you perceive a lack of control or decision making to deal with the demands.
What are the signs of burnout?
If constant stress has you feeling helpless and exhausted, then you may be on the verge of emotional and physical exhaustion or burnout. Early signs of burnout include fatigue, headaches, muscle aches, and appetite and sleep disturbance. You may dread the idea of going to work, believe nothing is being accomplished at work and that your efforts aren’t being appreciated. You may begin withdrawing from others and cope in unhealthy ways.
What can employees on the verge of burnout do to prevent it?
Burnout results when – over a period of time – high levels of stress are not managed. Burnout involves seeing only the negatives of the situation and believing that you do not have any control. To prevent burnout, recognize the signs early on and set realistic goals for change with attention to your self-care. Ask yourself what is your biggest concern and what is in your control. Focus your energies there.
What are some things employers can do to prevent burnout in their employees?
While not all types of business will allow family-friendly practices such as flexible work schedules, job-sharing and working from home, all workplaces can identify stressors particular to their employees and their workplace and set goals to reduce workplace stress.
Many companies offer Employee Assistance Programs to employees who have signs of stress-related problems, personal problems or work-related concerns. Many forward-thinking employers offer health and wellness programs to improve overall health. Companies may also encourage community service to help employees feel connected to the community outside of work.
Companies can insure that each employee understands his role and its importance to the company, provide recognition and address the practices and processes that contribute to burnout.
Some people are afraid to take time off, afraid to not put in the increased hours necessitated by fewer workers.
Time off is one means to reduce job stress and promote family life balance, and it is the greatest need for some people. When you find yourself resentful or relationships are strained by the demands of your job, then it may be time to discuss expectations with your employer and brainstorm your options.
Be certain that your fear about taking time off is real. Set priorities for your time and trust them. Be open about your needs while also stating your commitment to your job.
Other than quitting, how can you deal with the boss from hell? A toxic workplace?
Before you can effectively deal with a boss who has unrealistic expectations, you must establish a commitment to your role and a genuine desire to make your boss successful in his or her role.
Remember that you cannot change a difficult person, but you can control how you respond.
Be engaged with your workplace to express ideas about the culture and speak up with specific ideas about how the company can support wellness and still make business work.
Focus on those aspects of the job that are rewarding to determine if the job is the best fit for you. Seek support from friends and family to meet obligations at home as you attend to your work priorities. If you find yourself overwhelmed and out of ideas, seek help from your Employee Assistance Program or other professional.
