Feel the Burn(out)
If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that we are resilient. We can adapt – find new ways of working. And that we have. Now, instead of going to an office where you might have had a short (or long) commute in your car, time on a bus or train, or even a walk, you get up, brush your teeth and hair, grab a cup of java (or tea) and power up your computer. You’re officially “at work!”
For many, what was initially a “woot woot!” moment has become a case of burnout resulting from the collision of remote work, homeschooling, and professional uncertainty. According to a survey from FlexJobs and Mental Health America [MHA], 75% of workers experienced burnout, and 40% of people polled said they are experiencing burnout symptoms while working from home.
Before the pandemic, people were still experiencing feelings of burnout. However, the pandemic has exacerbated the problem and added a new level of complexity. Adapting to new technologies and after-hours requests for calls, Zoom meetings, and shifting work responsibilities has had a significant impact.
I recently spoke with a client who has two school-aged children at home, both of whom are distance learning. They need supervision to ensure they can access school from their computers. Invariably one or both children have an issue accessing the remote classroom, which causes numerous interruptions throughout the day. There is also the matter of breakfast and lunch. Both kids need to be fed, and my client (and her husband) need to monitor the kids to ensure they are online and paying attention to the work. The pre-pandemic schedule was easy for them. They took turns dropping the kids at school and had a part-time sitter get them after school. That person remained with the kids at home to supervise homework, snack, etc., until either my client or her husband returned home. This shift has caused a major disruption for them all. Homelife and work-life are all suffering as a result. Tensions and stress are at an all-time high. My client relays to me the struggles for the entire family – and this family is not alone.
Here are some tips to help you manage your time and gain back some control:
Rest it Out.
You cannot work 85 hours a day – nor should you try. Last time I checked, there were only 24 hours in a day. You need time to sleep (let’s say 7-8 hours); you need time for yourself (think reading a book or taking a walk) – you get the point. If you don’t find time to rest and recharge, you won’t do your best work. Self-care is critical to avoiding and overcoming burnout.
Exercise.
Studies show that exercise is good for both your mental and physical health. Exercise can revitalize you, reduce tension, and prepare you to address the next day’s activities. As a lifetime exercise enthusiast, I can personally vouch for its effectiveness! It will also boost your mood. Start with even 30 minutes a few times a week and go from there. You will reap the benefits.
Talk to Someone:
Speaking to a therapist can help you better understand your stress points and give you strategies to explore coping methods and ways to drive sustainable changes. Don’t be afraid to reach out for assistance.
The Takeaway.
Take the opportunity to take a close look at your situation. If you are feeling overwhelmed and burnout is getting to you, it’s time to gain control of you schedule, how you plan your day, and schedule some YOU time.