If you’re an employee at a small or mid-size business, chances are you’ve experienced burnout in some capacity. Whether it’s from working long hours, being on call 24/7, or having to constantly meet demanding deadlines, burnout is a very real problem that needs to be addressed. Left unchecked, employee burnout can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even high turnover rates.
So what can be done to combat employee burnout? Below are some recommendations for both individual employees and managers who want to create a more positive and productive workplace:
One of the first steps in preventing employee burnout is educating your managers about what it is and how to avoid it. Managers play a crucial role in setting the tone for the workplace, so it’s important that they’re aware of the signs of burnout and know how to address them. Additionally, managers should be encouraged to create a positive and supportive work environment where employees feel like they can openly communicate any concerns or issues they may be having.
Strong teamwork is another important component of preventing employee burnout. When everyone on a team is working together towards a common goal, it can help increase motivation and morale. Additionally, open and honest communication among team members is essential in order to identify any potential problems early on. If there are any issues with someone feeling overworked or underappreciated, being able to talk about it openly can help prevent those feelings from festering and leading to burnout.
Employee wellness programs have been shown to be effective in reducing stress levels and promoting a healthy work-life balance. If your company doesn’t already have a wellness program in place, consider spearheading one yourself (Taking on this mission will have the added benefit of providing a feeling of increased purpose — a great burnout remedy!) There are a number of easy and affordable ways to get started, such as offering discounts on gym memberships or partnering with local businesses to offer employees special rates on yoga classes or massages.
Mindfulness meditation is a form of mindfulness that can be practiced anywhere at any time. It involves focusing on your breath and being present in the moment without judgment. Research has shown that mindfulness meditation can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost self-esteem. Taking just 10-15 minutes out of your day to practice mindfulness meditation can make a world of difference in how you feel both mentally and physically.
Sometimes the best way to combat employee burnout is simply to recognize when someone does a good job. A little appreciation goes a long way in making people feel valued and appreciated at work. If you see someone going above and beyond or taking on extra projects, take the time to let them know that you noticed and appreciate their hard work. The same goes for managers—if they’re doing something that’s making your job easier or more enjoyable, let them know! A little recognition can go a long way in preventing employee burnout before it even starts.
Employee burnout is a very real problem that needs to be addressed. Left unchecked, it can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even high turnover rates. Fortunately, the creative solutions above can help employees and their managers combat employee burnout. So don’t wait – take action today!