Research suggests that workplace stress is common. Data also suggests that stress levels are at an all-time high. The COVID-19 crisis only made the problem worse, and both employees and executives are feeling it. Worse, research (and there is plenty) claims that many people aren’t comfortable talking up about their need for a break. This is a result of problematic workplace environments. Even more, studies have shown that some people are hardwired not to speak up.
Nearly half of employees feel anxious about asking for time off work and many of them fear being judged for asking for mental health days. Executives have unique concerns. Leaders have been burning at an unprecedented rate. Nearly 60% of them feel exhausted by the end of the workday. Executive Burnout is harmful to the leader in many terms and here’s how to deal with executive burnout.Â
Table of Contents
Go On A Vacation
Time off is essential for employee satisfaction as well as productivity. This is ultimately good for the business. This is because vacations that include a combination of factors such as “you time”, sunshine, exercise, quality sleep, and new friends can have a positive effect on your mental health. Although you might feel uncomfortable about returning to work or delegating responsibility, you can take comfort in the fact that you will be able to return to work with a refreshed mind. You don’t have to be afraid of looking lazy if you follow a work ethic. People who do not take time off are less likely to be promoted because burnout can cause a decline in performance.
Move Your Body
Your physical and mental health will benefit from exercise. Data shows that even if you feel the effects of burnout, just one session of aerobics can improve your mood and cognitive flexibility. Exercise can also help improve your memory, organization, and reasoning. Aerobic exercise increases blood flow in your brain. Exercise, in general, lowers stress hormones. It also releases endorphins, which are feel-good neurotransmitters that can naturally improve your day. It can improve your sleep quality as well as other factors that contribute to your burnout.
Find Your Community
Isolation is a major cause of burnout. You may be feeling isolated at work, which can lead to greater burnout. You can connect with colleagues by joining or starting employee resource groups, attending after-hours events (or throwing them), and networking within your office. It is important to set a good example and lead by example as an executive. Engaging and encouraging compassion in the community will lead to more engagement from your team. This creates a welcoming, accepting, and encouraging company culture. These are all qualities that can help you (and others) avoid burnout.
Respect Your Boundaries
Studies have shown that work can bleed into your personal life and cause stress. That only leads to a vicious circle of work affecting your life–and a very poor work-life balance. This is just one reason setting boundaries is so important. It might mean leaving your office (including virtual offices) at the same time each day or turning off your phone after a certain hour. Maybe it’s a promise to yourself that you won’t snoop on Slack, or check emails until you are “done” for each day. It could be saying no when you don’t have the time. You must respect the boundaries you set for yourself and others.
Ask For Help
There are many myths about asking for help in the workplace. For example, you might be afraid of “sounding stupid”, or worried about imposing your will on others. Or, perhaps, you may worry about being rejected. Sometimes, however, it is necessary to ask for help. This can help you manage your workload and reduce stress.
It is important to realize that asking for help does not have to be a bad thing. It all depends on how you do it. It’s a good idea to make a list of all the things you have tried and done, along with possible solutions. This will allow you to be more specific about what you need and you can choose the right person to help you based on your request or you can also look for a luxury mental health retreat.
Final Words
A collaborative culture can be created by showing appreciation and being open to helping others when they ask. You’re not alone in your curiosity about executive burnout. If you use the five tips, you will have a greater chance of preventing or beating burnout before it becomes worse.
