Do you ever feel overwhelmed at work? If so, you’re not alone. There are many signs of burnout and most people become desensitized to them because they are too busy to notice – but eventually, something has to give. Why not get in front of it all by taking a burnout inventory?  

As a talent recruiter, I commonly hear the following types of comments when I talk with candidates about their work experience:    

• Feeling overworked  
• Losing motivation to work   
• Negative feelings toward my job (or my boss)  
• Coming home, I just want to go to sleep   

Those are all stressors and symptoms of job burnout or workplace burnout. They point to the need for a better work-life balance and other adjustments in daily life. If any of them sound like you, what can you do about it? The answer is “a lot,” and you can do it in big or small ways. The important thing is to take action to improve your outlook, your life, and your future.  

Following are some ways you can avoid work burnout, improve your well-being and mental health, and remain as productive as possible. Choose one or two burnout prevention options to get started and add others as you go. Even the smallest changes can make a big difference in your daily work life, your energy level, and your sense of purpose.  

Leave work at work (even if you work at home!)   

• Organize your time, priorities, and work schedule so that you can work during work hours and focus on family and friends during off hours.  
• Separate work life from home life by setting boundaries. For example, avoid reading and responding to work emails, texts, and phone calls when you’re off the clock, including during your breaks. By the same token, avoid personal life distractions while working so that you can get more done, improve stress management, and really enjoy your time off.  

Take quick breaks   

• Breaks are an important part of the workday and your health. Long hours without breaks are one of the biggest causes of burnout!   
• Taking quick breaks can dramatically increase your overall productivity throughout the day. 
• Walking away from a lengthy task for a quick break can help you complete the task is less time. It’s true! Taking a breather often provides a new perspective and invariably reduces job stress.   

Attend fun company functions and activities    

• Participate in or suggest additional training sessions that are interesting to you. 
• Attend birthday parties for your co-workers – maybe even organize one! 
• Become more engaged and involved in your company’s culture initiatives so that you can share your thoughts and ideas and develop a greater sense of purpose at work. 

Make sure exercise is a part of your daily routine 

Believe it or not, emotional exhaustion and physical exhaustion can be mitigated with exercise! Make healthcare a priority to reduce work-related stress. Here are some ideas:   

• Do office yoga. 
• Park farther away to get in a good walk going to and from work, the restaurant, the store, etc. 
• Take the stairs whenever you can. 
• Do leg lifts when you’re talking on the phone or surfing the web or social media pages. 
• Here are more speedy exercise ideas for busy people to improve physical health. 

Get your sleep   

Self-care often starts with giving your mind and body needed rest through good sleep habits. Not enough sleep can take a big toll. Most adults need seven or more hours of good-quality sleep on a regular schedule each night. Here are benefits you can count on:   

• Get sick less often  
• Stay at a healthy weight  
• Lower your risk for serious health problems  
• Reduce stress and improve your mood  
• Think more clearly and do better in school and at work  
• Get along better with people  
• Make good decisions and avoid injuries   

Enjoy your days off   

• Be sure to take your vacation days, and don’t hesitate to use sick days when you need them.  
• Make the most of your vacation time and other time away from work. Take time to make some plans and do fun and fulfilling things.  
• Use personal time to recharge. Let go of work-related thoughts. Just turn it off and disconnect!  

Develop a passion for your work  

At Goodwin Recruiting, we recognize that not everyone is able to find satisfaction and fulfillment in their current jobs or work environment. Sometimes, the fit just isn’t right, no matter what you do to combat burnout. You owe it to yourself to find the right fit. 

If you’re at a point where you need to make a change, you have options. We believe it’s not enough to love what you do. You should also love where you do it! Let us help you explore job opportunities that are tailored to your unique skills, needs, and goals. You might even consider becoming a talent recruiter yourself – and we can help you make that happen!