You realize you are burned out.
Or maybe it’s someone on your team.
Either way, it is important to understand the cause of the burnout before you can address it.
A recent article in Harvard Business Review suggests that there are three types of burnout, and each has a different remedy.
*Overload Burnout. This is the classic type of burnout where a person simply puts in too many hours. It’s bad for your health and relationships. Sometimes this is self-imposed and other times it is part of an organization culture. If this is part of the culture you are in, then you need to get out. Or – if you are the boss who created this culture – change it!
If Overload Burnout is self-imposed, then it is actually a bigger issue – because this will follow you wherever you go. Often times this happens because a person associates their entire self-worth with their work. Retaining an executive coach can be a helpful way to see past this and create a more balanced life.
*Under-Challenged Burnout. You have no energy – but it is not because you are tired; you are bored. You need to do two things. First, take on new responsibilities. If your boss will not give them to you then go to co-workers who you think are working on interesting projects and ask to participate. Next, you need some self-development. There are tons of great courses you can take – often for free – through entities like LinkedIn or Coursera. Or maybe you need to get a new degree or earn a certificate in a field that interests you.
*Neglect Burnout. This is the result of a bad boss. It occurs when you are not given the guidance and support that people need. Get a meeting with your boss and make sure you understand your exact job responsibilities. Next, collaboratively write out what your priorities should be. Check in on these regularly to make sure they have not changed and to update your boss on your progress.
It’s no fun being burned out and it is not good for your organization. Whether it is you with the issue or a team member, address this head on. Your team will be more productive and fulfilled. And your organization will make more of a Mission Impact.
*Ideas for this blog taken from: Wilding, M. “3 Types of Burnout, and How to Overcome Them,” Harvard Business Review online, August 22, 2022.
