Overwhelm, Burnout, Stress …. what do they actually mean? They are words which are getting used more and more. In this article I delve further into the topic and give some practical tips for spotting signs and overcoming burnout.

Lets start with some definitions:

Stress. A state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.

Overwhelm. Bury or drown under a huge mass of something.

Emotional Overwhelm. Being completely submerged by your thoughts and emotions about all of lifes current problems, to the point where you lack productivity and feel frozen, paralysed, stuck.

Burnout. A state of physical and emotional exhaustion. Burnout is the result of excessive and prolonged emotional, physical and mental stress. It happens when you’re overwhelmed, physically and emotionally drained and unable to keep up with life’s incessant demands.

How does burnout affect us?

The most important first step is to know what you’re dealing with and how burnout can impact our lives. Burnout can have a wide range of effects on us, including:

  • Physical symptoms: Fatigue, insomnia, frequent headaches and changes in appetite.
  • Emotional and mental symptoms: Increased irritability, lack of motivation, difficulty concentrating, feelings of detachment and decreased job satisfaction.
  • Behavioural changes: Social withdrawal, increased use of substances (such as alcohol or drugs), engaging in unhealthy coping mechanisms and reduced productivity.

Why have we seen an increase in burnout in recent years?

The increase in burnout can be attributed to a combination of various factors, including:

  • Increased workplace demands and expectations: The modern work environment often demands longer working hours, constant connectivity, and higher productivity levels. The more available you are the more availability is expected. I often coach senior leaders and business owners who are logging back on to their laptops at 9:00pm once the kids are in bed. This can lead to chronic stress and overwhelm, ultimately contributing to burnout.
  • Technological advancements: The widespread use of technology has blurred the boundaries between work and personal life, making it harder to disconnect and create a healthy work-life balance. It’s not uncommon to be juggling a conversation with your kids at the same time as making the dinner and answering emails.
  • Intensified societal pressures: People are often exposed to societal expectations of success, leading to increased pressure to achieve goals and maintain high performance levels. You see people constantly scrolling through social media and subconsciously comparing themselves or setting unrealistic expectations on themselves about what they “should” be doing. This is a common theme for many of my clients – rigid demands placed on yourself which then results in striving for perfection.
  • Economic uncertainty and job instability: The fear of job loss and uncertain economic conditions can put additional stress on individuals, increasing the risk of burnout. When you are running your own business and you employ people who rely on you this pressure can be immense. The feeling of lack of control over external factors can be overwhelming for business leaders.

How do we spot the signs of burnout in others?

Spotting signs of burnout in others can help us intervene and offer support. Some indicators of burnout in individuals may include:

  • Feeling tired and drained all the time (no sleep, lack of motivation to do anything)
  • Short temper
  • No self care (drinking too much/eating too much)
  • Inability to focus or get things done (can’t think straight)
  • Disconnection/feeling alone
  • Lack of joy
  • Feelings of failure

What can we do to help others if we think they are experiencing burnout?

If we suspect someone is experiencing burnout, here are some ways we can support them:

  • Engage in active listening: Provide a safe space for them to express their feelings and concerns without judgment.
  • Encourage self-care: Help them prioritise rest, relaxation, and activities that bring them joy and rejuvenation.
  • Offer assistance: Identify ways to ease their workload or provide support in their personal life, if possible.
  • Suggest professional help: Encourage them to seek coaching or counselling services to work through their burnout symptoms.
  • Foster a supportive environment: Create an atmosphere where conversations about mental health and well-being are normal and supported.

How should we approach people who are burnt out?

When approaching someone experiencing burnout, it’s essential to approach them with empathy, compassion, and understanding. Choose a private and comfortable setting to have an open conversation. Be non-judgmental, listen actively, and validate their feelings. Offer assistance and support, but respect their autonomy in deciding what steps they want to take.

How can we avoid burnout ourselves?

To prevent burnout, it’s crucial to prioritise self-care and establish healthy boundaries. Here are some strategies to avoid burnout:

  • Set realistic goals and manage expectations, both personally and professionally.
  • Practice stress management techniques, such as meditation, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises.
  • Maintain a healthy work-life balance by setting clear boundaries between work and personal life.
  • Engage in regular physical activity, eat nutritious meals and get enough sleep.
  • Seek support from friends, family, or a coach or therapist to help navigate difficult situations and emotions.
  • Take regular breaks, holidays and time off to recharge and rejuvenate.

What’s the single most important thing we can do to tackle burnout?

The single most important thing we can do to tackle burnout is to prioritise our well-being. This means recognising the signs and symptoms of burnout, taking proactive steps to manage stress, seeking support when needed, and making self-care a non-negotiable part of our lives. By prioritising our well-being, we can prevent burnout and maintain a healthier and more sustainable approach to work and life.

I hope this articles provides some insight into this topic. If you think it’s time for some external support and are wondering how a professional coach might be able to help you, then reach out and let’s chat. My email address is alexis@franchisecoach.uk or you can DM me on LinkedIn. Let’s keeping talking about this topic!