What Happens Just Before Burnout?

Do you know this person? We’ll call her Sarah. She used to walk into the office with a bounce, radiating enthusiasm. Sarah does a top-notch worker and was on the fast track to promotion.  But lately, something has changed. Her shoulders slump, her eyes lack sparkle, and her energy seems drained.  Her lips say everything is fine, but her eyes do not.

Sarah, once the go-to person, is now not volunteering for work tasks but instead seems irritable. Over the last few weeks, she has been calling out mainly on Fridays and Mondays. You overheard her talking about "this place and these people.” 

Three weeks ago, she quit. Your manager asked you what happened, and you didn’t know. In her exit interview, she said she was tired, burned out, and couldn’t do it. You were shocked at her response.

But did you miss the signs? Being attuned to your team members' well-being is vital as a manager. 

Recognizing the warning signs of burnout can make all the difference, saving your next star performer from walking out the door. Here’s what you need to look for:

One of the early indicators of burnout is emotional exhaustion. Watch out for increased irritability, sudden mood swings, or a noticeable decline in enthusiasm. When employees feel emotionally drained, their productivity suffers, and they may lose their passion for their work.

A decline in productivity can often be attributed to mounting stress levels. Keep an eye out for missed deadlines, a decrease in quality of work, or an inability to focus. Burnout can cause individuals to lose their concentration ability, resulting in reduced efficiency and output.

The worker starts to withdraw from others. When people are on the edge of burnout, they tend to withdraw and isolate themselves. They may avoid social interactions, stop participating in team activities, or become distant. This withdrawal is a self-protective mechanism; addressing it before it deepens is essential.

Lack of engagement is a clear sign. Employees who were once driven and passionate may suddenly appear disinterested or apathetic. They may show indifference toward the team's goals. Recognizing this shift can help you intervene in time. 

As a manager, you must create a supportive environment that promotes well-being and prevents burnout. Recognizing the above signs, you can proactively address the issue before it escalates. Encourage open communication, provide opportunities for rest and rejuvenation, and foster a culture that values work-life balance.

Remember, burnout is not a personal failing but a consequence of prolonged stress and exhaustion. By prioritizing the well-being of your team members, you can empower them to navigate challenging times and reignite their passion for their work.

That’s all for this week. 

Always wishing you the best,

Dr. Beckford

PS. Grab this FREE self-care guide with my best tips here.