What is burnout anyway?

In short, burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Especially in recent years, the number of people suffering from burnout has increased. Here you can find out why this is so and why it is therefore so elementary that you deal with the topic of burnout as a team. 

Reason 1:

One of the main reasons for the increase in burnout in today's society is the fast pace and interconnectedness of modern life. With the advent of technology, people are expected to be available and responsive at all times, leading to a constant state of stress and pressure. This can become especially challenging for people who work in high-demand occupations, such as those in the technology industry, where long hours and tight deadlines are the norm.

Reason 2:
Another factor contributing to the rise of burnout is the increasing pressure to succeed and accomplish more in less time. With competition for jobs, educational opportunities and other opportunities at an all-time high, there is increasing pressure on individuals to do more and achieve more in less time. This can lead to a constant state of stress and affect mental and physical health.

Reason 3:
In addition, societal expectations and cultural norms also play a role in burnout. Many people today feel pressured to maintain a perfect work-life balance while succeeding at work, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress. The increasing emphasis on the importance of self-care and mindfulness can also contribute to burnout, as people feel guilty or ashamed when they are unable to achieve the level of balance and well-being expected of them. The rule here is - less is sometimes more.

Reason 4:
Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic also had a significant impact on burnout rates, as many people were forced to work from home at that time. Often in isolation and without the usual support systems. This exacerbated feelings of stress and anxiety and often led to a blurring of the lines between work and home life. Because of this, many people have found it difficult to even separate themselves from work and truly relax once in a while. Even today, these thin boundaries between home office work and sustained relaxation are still present.

As you can see, the increase in burnout today can be attributed to a combination of factors, including the fast pace and constant interconnectedness of modern life, societal expectations, increased pressure to succeed, and the pandemic. It's important for you to communicate as a team about the relevance of the topic.