Banish Burnout: 6 Ways to Manage Work Stress

Even the most driven professionals can run low on energy and enthusiasm at times. But when job pressures create an unrelenting level of stress, it can lead to a state of physical and emotional exhaustion known as burnout.

If your job is leaving you feeling this way, you’re not alone. In fact, 65% of workers say they have experienced burnout, which can negatively affect not just job performance but personal well-being.

6 Ways To Bring Down The Heat

For B2B marketers who are often juggling multiple projects and deadlines, burnout is a valid concern. And while not everything job-related is under our control, there are still things you can do.

Following are 6 ways to mitigate stress and get back your enthusiasm for a job you once embraced:

Build Boundaries

Admittedly, achieving a work-life balance is more difficult these days, with hybrid work environments and ever-present cell phones making us appear “open for business” around the clock. Even if you’re not in an office, set structured work hours and do your best to avoid work-related communications outside of those times.
Take Short Breaks

Have lunch away from your desk, take a few minutes to chat with a coworker about something non-business, or go for a mid-day stroll to return with a fresh perspective. Such short breaks make getting through tasks seem less daunting. TRY THIS: The Pomodoro Technique is a fun way to increase productivity by breaking your work into timed intervals with respites in between.
Take Longer Breaks Too

Sure, it can be hard to take a vacation when you feel like you’re perpetually behind the eight ball, but that’s exactly why you need time away. Sadly, just 48% of US workers say they use all their allotted vacation time.
Practice Time Management

After all, time is your most important asset, and effective management of it not only helps you get more done but also prevents feelings of overwhelm. Do you flit from task to task without getting anything actually accomplished? When there’s too much to do, prioritize tasks on a weekly and daily basis so the “have to’s” get your top attention. Read our Q&A with productivity expert Wendy Ellin for more tips on getting more from your day.
Prioritize Self-Care

This isn’t a luxury but a necessity for mental and physical health. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, adequate sleep, and mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga can help reduce stress. Having hobbies and activities outside of work also provides a necessary mental break and helps maintain a healthy work-life balance.
Go Easy On Yourself

Perfectionism is a key contributor to burnout, and being realistic about what can be accomplished in a given timeframe can alleviate pressure. Remember to celebrate small victories and understand that not every project will go perfectly.

Why Businesses Should Care About Worker Burnout

Data from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) indicates that workers who are burned out:

Are nearly three times more likely to be actively searching for another job
Are significantly less likely to go above and beyond what is expected of them versus those who did not report burnout

Creating a supportive work environment can significantly mitigate the risk of burnout and improve worker productivity. For example, encouraging open communication, setting realistic goals for team members, and recognizing their achievements can help foster a positive atmosphere. It’s also crucial for managers to be approachable, attentive, and to offer support and flexibility when needed.

Overwork and burnout are serious issues with far-reaching consequences if left unaddressed. This is why it’s essential to recognize the signs of them in ourselves and others.

Make it your personal mantra to “burn bright without burning out.”

The Connector