Burnout is a hot topic. Particularly because of the pandemic. However, it was not the pandemic that began the study of burnout. It is a concept that has had the attention of researchers for many years. We mentioned some of the things that can cause stress previously. However, the real issue with negative stress is that it can lead to burnout.
We can look at burnout as the point reached where you or your people are physically, mentally, and emotionally unable to perform. It is extreme. Vullinghts, De Hoogh, Den Hartog, and Boon defined it as chronic work-related stress. Although I agree, I find this definition vague. I experienced burnout a few times in my career. For me, personally, it took on a physical presence. I became sick (more than just the flu) and couldn’t perform for at least a week. My body said enough.
Palena Neale, in her article Serious Leaders Need Self-Care, Too, stated that you can’t be a successful leader if you don’t take time to recharge. In fact, Rachel Hollis, Girl Wash Your Face, also mentioned the need to take care of yourself, which sets the example for your people. Jody Michael argued that taking care of yourself serves you and those around you.
So why is it so hard for us to take care of ourselves? We know we need to! We know it is the only way to survive! Yet, we insist that we can power through? I tried and managed often. However, when it hit me, it hit me hard.
Taking care of yourself as a leader is essential. But what does that actually mean. There is an expectation that you will anticipate and see your people’s reactions and emotions before they burnout. To do so, you probably need to recognize them in yourself as well. Not to suggest that they will behave or react exactally as you do. However, if you cannot recognize it in yourself, how can you recognize it in others?
Personality plays a role in how people react to stress. So you kind of need to know your personality to pinpoint your buttons and those of your people. When things become too stressful, what do you do? I can offer a few things that I have found effective.
- I walk away for a moment. Sometimes music helps, and occasionally utter silence helps.
- Close your eyes for a moment and breath. Not just a natural breath. Take a few deep breaths in and out. Focus on that (I know it sounds silly, but it works for me).
- Vent! Sometimes you have to go to someone willing just to sit and listen. Sometimes I just need to let it out (ideally, that person isn’t trying to give advice). This also only works if you are the type to be able to let it go after.
Whatever you need to do (aside from taking out your frustration on others), take a moment and self-care before you physically, mentally, or emotionally break and burnout.
