Burnout. It’s a very real thing that happens to many American workers. In fact, according to the American Psychological Association, roughly 3-in-5 employees experience burnout during their careers. But how do you identify burnout? How do you know it is time for a career change?
First, it’s important to realize that burnout is not the same as a rough patch. A rough patch is a stressful period, usually caused by extra work, fast deadlines, challenges, or setbacks. These pass, and the typical workflow soon resumes. Burnout is when the stress becomes more serious and prolonged.
If you’re experiencing any of the following, you may want to consider a career shift.
Don’t Like Going to Work?
This is the primary symptom of burnout. Dreading work is about more than experiencing work-related stress for a week or two. When you pull up to the parking lot, are you afraid to go inside? Is it difficult to get out of bed and start your commute? These are symptoms of a larger problem, one that not only signals burnout but the need for a career change.
Your job should be something that brings you satisfaction and purpose. It shouldn’t make you anxious or stressed all the time. Remember, work is the leading cause of chronic stress in the United States. This typically stems from poor job fit and can lead to multiple health issues if it goes unresolved.
Does this sound like something you’re experiencing on a regular basis? You’re likely headed for burnout. If the prospect of starting a new career scares you less than going into work, then it’s time to get serious about making a change.
Is Your Personal Life Suffering?
Has your family commented on your stress and irritability lately? Are you losing interest in your passions because you’re so exhausted? Are you missing out on time with friends because you’re overloaded? We have news for you: You are experiencing burnout.
There should always be a healthy line between your work and personal life. If those lines start to get blurred and work stress creeps in, something is off balance. Being permanently stressed from work will impact your personal life; there’s no question about that.
It’s important to put in the extra effort to do things you love outside of work. Go for a hike. Get brunch with friends. Catch up with your family. And, perhaps most importantly, start looking for a new job that lights you up instead of dragging you down.
Is Your Work Unsatisfying?
Can’t remember the last time a work project excited you? You’re burned out. Can’t remember the last time you cared about getting something done by deadline? Burned out. If you feel undervalued, like your time and skills are being wasted, you are – SAY IT WITH US! – burned out!
Your work should invigorate you or at least feel like a job well done at the end of the day. Being checked out, not caring about promotions, and not feeling invested in any of your work relationships are all signs that you are headed for, or already in, burnout.
Yes, even at a job you love, there will be periods when the work just feels like work. But there are also times of excitement with a new project or promotion. Not looking forward to any of these things points to a career you can’t sustain long-term.
Are You Suffering Physically and Emotionally?
Burnout also presents itself in how your body is feeling. Physical manifestations can include:
- Constant fatigue
- Headaches
- Loss of sleep
- Getting sick all the time
- Stomach issues
- Losing your appetite
- Chest pains
- Blurred vision
- Or frequent panic attacks.
These are the results of constant stress, which, let’s not forget, is one of the leading causes of chronic illness in the United States.
There are emotional signs of burnout too:
- Cynicism
- Helplessness
- Doubt
- Sense of failure
- Loss of motivation
- A constant irritability.
These can be addressed short-term. But finding a long-term solution is critical.
Do You Dream of a New Career?
Have you caught yourself daydreaming about a new job? This could be another indicator that you’re ready for a better job fit. If you work in a toxic work environment, don’t feel like your aspirations are being met, or have lost interest in your job, seeking a change is a completely natural thing to do.
If you’re longing for a new adventure, a bold career move could be the answer to your burnout problems. The goal should be finding something that gives you satisfaction and emotional peace. And one thing that will make your search far easier is working with a trusted staffing service. Want a list of reasons why having a team on your side is the smart way to go? Click here.
Masiello Employment Services has been helping local people find meaningful work for nearly four decades. We serve the Monadnock Region of New Hampshire, the Brattleboro area of Vermont, and the Greenfield area of Massachusetts. If you’re ready to quit your burnout and hunt down an exciting new job with us, call (603) 358 1000!
