Are You A Victim of Job Burnout?

Closely linked to stress in many is burnout, which can be defined as job dissatisfaction, depression, lack of interest in what you are doing or alienation. In the book Career Burnout it is defined as a state of physical, emotional and mental exhaustion caused by long term involvement in situations that are emotionally demanding.

Are you suffering from physical exhaustion, feelings of helplessness? You may be experiencing burnout. You can develop a negative concept of yourself and negative attitudes toward co-workers or your work in general.
In the most extreme circumstances, individuals can experience a nervous breakdown.

So what can you do if you think you have burnout? Begin by analyzing your personality. If you very fast paced, want to hurry others along, and try to multiple task to an extreme you have a Type A personality and may be showing some symptons of burnout.

Look to find a sense of importance in something besides your work. Get involved in a hobby, or the musical arts. Take time to relax, enjoy nature and just smell the roses.

Set goals for your work and your private life that give purpose and meaning to your life. Put your job in perspective. Look at other facets of your life including your family, friends, and hobbies.

Look at attending classes, joining a bible or special interest group. Relook at your short and long term goals. Make sure they are realistic. Jot down any changes that you feel you need to make. Realize that you have the power to make those changes and realize all of the things that you can be grateful for.