Burnout has become an increasingly common affliction in the past few years – so  much so that a 2020 survey showed that two-thirds of employees in the UK have  experienced it.  

Burnout is something of a creeper – it gradually gets worse and it doesn’t go away  on its own. Plus, it is still something of a taboo subject, especially for business owners. 

Looking after our body and mind is the most important thing we can do – so why  do we struggle so much to prioritise ourselves? 

Let’s break the stigma, shall we?  

This blog will explore the causes and symptoms of burnout, before giving you  effective strategies to break the cycle. 

What is Burnout?

Burnout is when you find yourself in “a state of physical and emotional exhaustion”. 

Burnout isn’t having a few overwhelming days in the office. Burnout occurs when  you feel exhausted all the time, no matter what you’re doing, because of long term stress. 

What Can Cause Burnout?

Burnout can be caused by: 

• An unmanageable workload  

• A lack of work/life balance 

• Working from home 

• Money issues  

• Concerns about job security  

You could also experience burnout due to personal circumstances, but we’re going  to stick to the professional ones here. 

What are the signs of burnout?  

Here are a few key signs to look out for: 

Feeling tired 

I don’t mean having a few days with low energy – it’s endless fatigue. 

This can lead to sleep issues and having no energy left to contribute to other areas  of your life.  

A Pessimistic Outlook  

If you’re experiencing burnout, it can be hard to find joy in life. When this is your  daily feeling, rather than occasionally having negative thoughts, it’s a red flag. 

You may also feel helpless or trapped, and full of self-doubt. 

Feelings of Isolation  

Feeling alone is a key symptom of burnout – you aren’t sure others will understand  what you’re going through.  

This also leads you to become detached, acting irritable and impatient towards the  people you’re closest to. 

Poor Work Performance  

Burnout will lead you to become disengaged, less creative, prone to procrastination, and more easily distracted. Tasks will take much longer to  complete than they should as a result. 

There can also be physical symptoms, such as regular headaches. 

This sounds like a lot of doom and gloom, but understanding what to look for is  how you break the cycle. 

Let’s get into that now! 

How to Break the Cycle  

Find Your Support Network  

Having people you can rely on in tough times is key. 

You might want to talk to your family, partner, or friends. Or, you might need an  entirely different sounding board.  

Building up a group of other professionals can be an amazing resource when  you’re struggling, as they will understand what you’re going through. 

Open and honest conversations will help you to feel a million times lighter – and  show you that you aren’t alone. 

Make Self-Care A Priority  

When you feel overwhelmed, you often stop taking care of yourself.  

You deserve the best, so build some healthy habits into your day. Make sure that  your daily routine includes some ‘me’ time. 

Have a bath, read a book, and get a good night’s sleep. Giving your mind a  moment to relax regularly will work wonders.

Set Boundaries  

I can’t shout about this one enough: take time off!  

Your time outside of work is precious – and you probably need to give yourself  more of it. Keep your evenings and weekends sacred. Don’t answer your emails  and put your phone on ‘Do Not Disturb’ – there are very few things that can’t wait.  

By giving yourself time to switch off, your mind and body reset, which can help  you think about things differently. 

Move Your Body  

Unleash endorphins with some gentle exercise. The benefits of exercise for stress  management are long proven, and it can be so helpful for breaking the burnout  cycle.  

Engage in any activity you like, and make sure it’s something you enjoy. You’re  again giving yourself the joy of ‘me time’, with some health benefits chucked in for  good measure. 

Hopefully, this blog has helped you understand what burnout is, the signs to look  for, and how to break the cycle.  

Burnout isn’t just bad for you - it’s bad for business. We spend so much time  working in and on our business. It should be something that lights a fire in our  belly! 

If you want to take control of your burnout, Club Synergy is here to help.  

Our NETwalking sessions give you an hour on the phone with a like-minded  business owner. You can chat about anything - not just about your business, but any issues you’re facing too. Plus, you get some mindful exercise in the process.  

We also offer a variety of at-home fitness classes, getting you away from your  screen to work up a sweat. From PT to Pilates and running clubs, there is  something for everyone.  

Click here to start your 14-day free trial today.