The term “burnout” was first coined by an American psychologist Herbert Freudenberger in the 1970s. It helped to address the consequences of chronic levels of stress.
According to research conducted by Westfield Health, nearly half (46%) of the UK workforce is close to burnout. With this in mind it is important that we consider strategies to help combat associated stress and bring balance back into our lives.
My top tips for preventing burnout:
Tip one: Be kind to yourself
Practicing self-compassion involves treating yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would offer to a good friend.
Tip two: Talk to other people
Speaking to someone about your thoughts and feelings – be that a trusted friend or family member. Sometimes simply talking out loud can be a great tool to reframe your mindset.
Tip three: Keep a journal
Diarising your day-to-day experiences (in whatever way that feels natural to you) can help you process some of your more challenging thoughts and feelings. Journaling can help you identify happiness triggers as you emerge from exhaustion.
Tip four: Eat well
What we eat influences our mental and physical health. Your diet can help support your wellbeing. Reclaim your lunch – take some time for the headspace as well as the nourishment.
Tip five: Be thankful
Rather than focus on the negative or difficult, it can be helpful to think about what you’re grateful for and then try to make a habit of reflecting on those things.
Preventing burnout is one of our regular workshops. See our event calendar for more details
Barrie Sample, Personal and team development trainer, PCC.
Last Updated on 2 April 2024
