For the first time, burnout was defined in 1974 by the founder of this concept Herbert Freudenberg who called it a “state of mental and physical exhaustion caused by one’s professional life”. All of us have ever met rude managers, indifferent doctors, or angry teachers. Who knows, maybe some of them used to be excited workers with fire in their eyes and genuine dream to help other people, but eventually their excitement turned into disgust due to burnout.
So, what are the main reasons for this phenomenon?
1. The most common cause of burnout is failed expectations. People get disappointed in themselves, in other people and their career path in general after realizing that the reality doesn`t meet their expectations.
2. Routine. No wonder that routine kills inspiration and enthusiasm. Most of the workers` tasks don`t change significantly for years, so apparently, they wish to complement their work with something new, but unfortunately, it`s not always possible.
3. Quite often, burnout plays the role of a defense mechanism for those working in the system involving close contact with other people and stress. That`s why doctors, lawyers, social workers, teachers, journalists, psychologists, etc. are more prone to experience burnout,
4. People having constant intrapersonal conflict relating to work. For example, women experiencing tension between work and family, and pressure in connection with the need to constantly prove their professional ability in the conditions of intense competition with men.
5. Working up the strength contributes to the emergence of the syndrome, and also leads to chronic stress and a low level of performance.
Companies often take care of the mental and physical health of their employees and try to make their lives as comfortable as possible. However, even if the last sentence doesn`t describe your employer, there are some easy steps you can do by yourself to increase your productivity and prevent burnout:
1. Develop healthy habits to start the day
The author of the book ” The Miracle Morning ” Hal Elrod says that the first hour determines the success. Give yourself 5 minutes of silence for visualization, reflection, and preparing for the new day. Then 5 minutes for affirmation. This is a positive statement to improve any area of life. And don’t forget to devote 15-20 minutes to physical exercise or reading.
2. Organize your working space
On the table should be a minimum of items that can distract you from the process and prevent rapid decision-making. If you spend 5 minutes looking for something on the table or on the computer, it immediately decreases your efficiency and concentration.
3. Try meditation
Many people think that meditation is useless. It seems like sitting and wasting time. But actually, when your brain has been working for the whole day with a crazy speed it needs a break such as meditation.It helps to control the thoughts and if you are experiencing stress, meditation may be the first step to solving the problem.
Remember, there is a fine line between efficiency and exhaustion. It is important to adequately evaluate the current situation, prioritize, take breaks, organize your time, space, and thoughts.