Feeling burnt-out? Here are some key signs:
• Mental exhaustion
• Lowered motivation and engagement
• Feeling cynical and resentful about your work and contribution
• Second-guessing your ability to do your work well
Psychologists recommend using the “3 R Approach” when you may be close to burnout
• Recognize the signs of burnout
• Reverse the symptoms by focusing on how you may personally reduce and manage your stress (This may be through pausing and realizing you need a break and/or to seek support).
• Resilience: Focus on taking care of your needs and what you are able to control
Strategies to help:
1. Reframe how you think about your day and your work:
When you recognize symptoms of burnout, think about the value you bring to your work: “How am I helping others? In whose life am I making a difference? Where can I have fun at work? Who can I talk to or spend time with to connect or distract me (chatting, joking, sharing ideas)?"
2. Take movement or creative breaks:
What fits into your day? Can you walk and talk at a meeting? Can you bring a fun project to work on or include your interests with your students or coworkers?
3. Use your social circle(s):
Trusted family, friends, coworkers, spend time doing what you enjoy with people who support and understand you, or try community, social and hobby groups and clubs.
