Wellbeing

Burnout at Work: 3 Sneaky Signs and What to Do About Them

Beat burnout with strategies for individuals and leaders. Focus on open communication, wellness programs, and recognition.

March 4, 2024
Nitesh Padghan

Burnout is a growing epidemic in the modern workplace. Characterized by chronic exhaustion, cynicism, and feelings of inadequacy, it can be insidious, creeping up on even the most dedicated employees.  While extreme burnout cases are easy to spot,  subtler signs can get lost in the shuffle of daily work demands. Recognizing these early warning signs is crucial for both employees and leaders to prevent full-fledged burnout and its harmful consequences.

1. The Energy Drain: Beyond Simple Tiredness

Everyone experiences tiredness at the end of a long work week.  Burnout exhaustion, however, is a different beast. Here's the distinction:

  • Persistent Fatigue: You feel drained even after a good night's sleep and find it difficult to muster the energy for everyday tasks.
  • Emotional Exhaustion: You feel emotionally depleted, making it challenging to manage work interactions with patience and empathy.
  • Physical Manifestations: Body aches, headaches, changes in appetite, or increased susceptibility to illness can be tied to burnout-induced stress.

What to Do:

  • Prioritize Rest: Quality sleep and restorative activities are essential. Aim for consistent sleep hygiene and dedicate time to hobbies or relaxation techniques.
  • Set Boundaries: Learn to say "no" to additional tasks when your plate is full. Create clear distinctions between work and personal life, including logging off when your shift ends.
  • Seek Support: Talk to a trusted colleague, friend, mental health professional, or your HR department for resources and strategies to combat exhaustion.

2.  The Fog of Mental Disengagement

Burnout isn't just about feeling overwhelmed; it's about a loss of connection to your work. Watch out for these red flags:

  • Loss of Focus: Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, and increased procrastination hint at a mind struggling to keep up.
  • Apathy and Cynicism: What once sparked interest feels mundane, and a negative or sarcastic attitude becomes your default.
  • Lack of Motivation: Initiating tasks feels like a monumental challenge and you have little drive to excel.

What to Do:

  • Break Down Tasks: Large projects can feel overwhelming. Break them into smaller, manageable steps to create a sense of control.
  • Rediscover Purpose: Remind yourself why your work matters. Connect your tasks to the bigger picture and how they contribute to the company's goals.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Recognizing even minor accomplishments helps combat feelings of inadequacy and reignites motivation.

3. The Undercurrent of Irritability and Isolation

Burnout doesn't just affect your internal state – it seeps into your interactions with others. Pay attention to these behavioral shifts:

  • Decreased Patience: You find yourself easily frustrated with colleagues, clients, or seemingly minor inconveniences.
  • Withdrawal and Isolation: You actively avoid social interactions at work or feel disconnected from your team.
  • Heightened Sensitivity to Criticism: Even small constructive feedback can feel harsh and trigger a defensive response.

What to Do:

  • Practice Self-Compassion: Recognize you're going through a tough time. Avoid self-blame and practice positive self-talk.
  • Mindful Communication: If you find yourself snapping, take a pause. Breathe deeply and choose your words carefully to avoid hurtful outbursts.
  • Reconnect with Colleagues: Reach out to a trusted coworker for a casual chat or schedule a team lunch to nurture social bonds.

The Leader's Role in Preventing Burnout

While individuals have a responsibility to manage their own well-being, leaders have a profound influence on creating a work environment that either fuels burnout or fosters resilience.  Beyond simply addressing existing burnout cases, proactive leaders prioritize prevention through these key actions:

Open Communication

Destigmatize conversations about stress, burnout, and mental health. Leaders should be approachable and encourage employees to share their struggles without fear of judgment.  Regular check-ins, surveys, and open forums create channels for employees to voice concerns before they reach a breaking point.

Manageable Workloads and Realistic Expectations

Continuously evaluate team workloads and advocate for realistic deadlines. Encourage employees to speak up if they feel overwhelmed, redistributing tasks or securing additional support when needed.

Flexibility and Autonomy

Where feasible, providing flexibility in work schedules and decision-making empowers employees with a sense of control, which can counteract feelings of helplessness that contribute to burnout.

Recognition and Rewards

A simple "thank you" goes a long way.  Regular recognition of achievements, both individually and as a team, cultivates a sense of appreciation and value.  Consider small rewards, bonuses, or additional time off as incentives and a way to celebrate milestones.

Employee Wellness Programs

Proactive wellness programs are a powerful tool in combating burnout. These programs can include webinars on stress management, mindfulness workshops, company-wide fitness challenges, access to mental health resources, and activities that build team cohesion.  By prioritizing holistic well-being, leaders show they care about employees beyond just job performance.

Investing in a culture of well-being isn't just the right thing to do; it's smart business.  Organizations that prioritize employee well-being see reduced absenteeism, increased productivity, higher job satisfaction, and improved ability to attract and retain top talent.

Burnout Doesn't Have to Be the Norm

By recognizing burnout's sneaky signs and actively addressing them, both individuals and organizations can create more sustainable and fulfilling work environments.  If you're struggling with burnout, remember you're not alone.  Reach out for support, set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and don't hesitate to make changes for a healthier and happier work life.

Occupational Wellbeing

Must-Have Skills 2023: Navigating Work, Life, and Beyond

January 15, 2023
The Wellness Tribe Team

As we enter a new year, it's time to sharpen our tools and prepare ourselves for the opportunities and challenges ahead. In this article, we'll be taking a closer look at the top skills expected to be in high demand in 2023 in the context of work, life, and more.

We'll offer tips and tricks on developing and showcasing these skills to potential employers so that you can be ready to take on the future confidently. So it's time to put on our thinking caps and get ready to level up our skillset to be prepared for the opportunities that 2023 has in store for us. 

So, let's gear up for the new year and discover the skills that will take us to new heights!

Career Progression

Career Progression
Photo by Benjamin Davies on Unsplash

The job market is an ever-changing landscape, and as we step into 2023, it's essential to stay ahead of the curve regarding high-demand skills. From the digital wizardry that's sought after in almost every industry to the data analysis skills that allow companies to make informed decisions, having the right skills can make all the difference in your career.

Let's start with digital literacy, the magic spell that can open many doors in today's digital age. It's a must-have skill that can take you places. Data analysis, meanwhile, is like a crystal ball that allows companies to see into the future and make informed decisions. And project management is the conductor's baton that helps companies to manage resources and meet deadlines effectively.

The question is, how do you acquire these skills and showcase them to prospective employers? You can take relevant courses or earn certifications to demonstrate your knowledge and proficiency. You can also take on projects that allow you to apply these skills in a real-world setting and include them in your resume or portfolio. Finally, just like a secret handshake, networking is a great way to showcase your skills and make connections in your industry.

Balancing Life's Equation

From emotional intelligence to time management, having a well-rounded set of life-related skills is like having a map and compass to chart your course through the swift currents of daily life.

Emotional intelligence, for example, is like a lighthouse that guides us through the storms of life, helping us to understand and manage our own emotions as well as the emotions of others. Time management, on the other hand, is like a clock that helps us make the most of our days and allows us to prioritize the things that are truly important to us. And effective communication is like a megaphone that amplifies our voice and enables us to express ourselves and connect with others.

To begin, practice mindfulness and reflect on your emotions and thoughts. Reading books and taking courses on emotional intelligence, time management, and effective communication can also be helpful. Setting goals, creating a schedule, and prioritizing our tasks can also help us improve our time management skills.

Unleashing Creativity

Must-Have Skills 2023: Navigating Work, Life, and Beyond
Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash

In 2023, some of the top skills expected to be in high demand include design thinking, problem-solving, and innovation. Design thinking is a creative problem-solving process involving understanding the user, challenging assumptions, and prototyping solutions. This skill is highly valued in today's business world as it allows companies to create products and services that uniquely and innovatively meet their customers' needs.

Problem-solving is another skill that is essential in today's fast-paced world. It involves identifying and analyzing problems and coming up with practical solutions. This skill is beneficial not only for finding solutions in the workplace but also in our personal life.

Innovation is the ability to come up with new and unique ideas. It is a vital skill in today's business environment as it allows companies to stay competitive and stay ahead of the curve.

To develop and showcase these skills to potential employers, it's important to actively seek out opportunities to practice them. This can include taking on projects at work that require design thinking, problem-solving, or innovation or seeking out additional education or training in these areas. One way to do this is through a corporate wellness program. Additionally, it's important to be able to communicate your skills effectively in job interviews and on your resume or CV.

The future is not set. There is no fate but what we make for ourselves." - John Connor, Terminator 2: Judgment Day

Rising to the Top

As we look to the horizon, the future of work and life seems to be in a state of constant flux. But one thing remains certain: the skills needed to thrive in this ever-evolving landscape are constantly evolving as well. In 2023, some of the most sought-after skills include creativity-related skills, technology expertise, and soft skills.

But don't forget about soft skills! Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are becoming increasingly important in today's world. Practice active listening, be open to feedback, and work on your communication skills.

In conclusion, the future is yours to shape. With the right skills and a willingness to learn and adapt, you can rise to the top in the rapidly changing world of 2023 and beyond. So don't wait; start investing in yourself today and watch as you reach new heights in your career and personal life.

Workspace

From Cubicles to Calm: Designing an Office That Supports Employee Wellness

November 4, 2024
Disha Shah

Imagine walking into an office that feels inviting, where you don’t immediately want to slump in your chair and zone out. Instead, it’s a space that lifts you up—a place with good lighting, fresh air, maybe a plant or two, and places to catch your breath when things get intense. Sounds like a dream, right?

The truth is, more companies are beginning to realize that when an office feels good, people feel good, and everyone benefits. A thoughtfully designed office can support wellness, reduce stress, and make the workday more enjoyable. And let’s face it, we all want to feel better at work. 

Here’s how small design tweaks and wellness-focused setups can turn “cubicles into calm.”

Why Wellness-Focused Offices Matter

The office environment has a huge impact on how people feel, how they work, and even how healthy they stay. Studies show that uncomfortable seating, poor lighting, and lack of private spaces can make people feel more stressed, tired, and disconnected. And on the flip side, when a space is supportive, comfortable, and lets people take care of themselves, it boosts mood, focus, and overall happiness.

A wellness-focused office isn’t just about throwing in a few plants and calling it a day. It’s about creating a space where people actually want to be, a space that supports their health and gives them room to thrive.

Elements of a Wellness-First Office: Making Space Feel Good

Let’s look at some small but impactful ways to make the office a place where people feel energized and supported.

1. Ergonomic Furniture that Feels Like It’s Made for You

Have you ever tried to focus while sitting in a chair that’s too stiff or too low? Ergonomic furniture—desks, chairs, and accessories that fit our bodies—can change the game. Good ergonomic setups reduce discomfort, help with posture, and make work a lot more comfortable.

  • Easy Fix: Adjustable chairs and sit-stand desks are ideal. And they’re not just for big companies anymore; affordable options are out there. Giving everyone control over their seating and desk height can go a long way toward making them feel comfortable.

2. Natural Light: A Natural Mood Booster

Few things are as uplifting as natural light. We’re wired to feel better when we’re exposed to daylight—it helps regulate our sleep patterns, keeps us energized, and even boosts our mood. Without it, offices can feel gloomy, making people feel less alert and more fatigued.

  • Easy Fix: Set up workstations near windows and, where possible, use open layouts or glass partitions to let light spread through the space. If you’re working with limited windows, daylight-mimicking lights can still make a big difference.

3. Greenery that Brings Life to the Workspace

Plants are amazing. Not only do they brighten up the space, but they’ve been shown to reduce stress and increase productivity. Plus, they improve indoor air quality, which is a huge bonus for stuffy offices.

  • Easy Fix: Start small with some hardy indoor plants like snake plants or pothos that need minimal care. You could even get the team involved by letting them pick a plant for their own workspace.

4. Quiet Zones for Focus and Decompression

Open offices have their pros, but let’s be real: they can be noisy. And noise can be a major stressor when you’re trying to focus or have some quiet time. Setting up quiet zones gives people a place to retreat, focus, or just breathe for a few minutes when the day feels overwhelming.

  • Easy Fix: Create quiet nooks with comfy chairs, soft lighting, and sound-absorbing materials. These don’t need to be full rooms—a cozy corner works just as well. It’s about having a place to step away and reset.

5. Spaces that Let People Move and Connect

Sitting all day is hard on the body and mind, so designing a space that encourages movement can be a game-changer. Plus, flexible areas for informal meetings make collaboration feel more natural and less like a forced sit-down.

  • Easy Fix: Think open lounge areas with modular furniture, standing tables, or even a small space where people can do stretches. Movement doesn’t need to be complicated—just give people options to switch things up.

Designing for Mental Well-being

Wellness isn’t just physical; mental and emotional well-being are just as important, and design can help support that. Here are a few ways to design with mental health in mind.

6. Using Color to Create a Calm, Positive Atmosphere

Colors can have a big impact on how we feel. Soothing colors like blues, greens, and neutrals create a calm vibe, while pops of color can keep the energy lively. The key is balance; you want a space that feels energizing without being overwhelming.

  • Easy Fix: If a full re-paint isn’t in the cards, add color through small touches like artwork, cushions, or desk accessories. It’s a subtle but powerful way to influence the mood.

7. A Dedicated Mindfulness or Meditation Space

Sometimes, people just need a moment to reset. A designated wellness or mindfulness area can be a quiet place to practice deep breathing, meditate, or simply escape the hustle for a few minutes.

  • Easy Fix: A wellness room doesn’t have to be elaborate. Think of a small room with some floor cushions, dim lighting, and maybe a speaker for calming music or guided meditations. Make it a phone-free zone for true relaxation.

8. Fresh Air and Clean Air for Clear Thinking

Poor air quality can cause fatigue, headaches, and even worsen allergies—none of which help productivity. Fresh, clean air supports physical health, mental clarity, and focus, making the office feel more inviting.

  • Easy Fix: Air purifiers are great additions, especially in closed spaces. If possible, open windows for ventilation. Indoor plants can also help filter the air naturally.

Supporting Social Wellness

The best offices encourage connection, which is essential for building team morale and trust. Here’s how to create social spaces that make people feel welcome.

9. Breakout Spaces for Team Bonding and Downtime

Not every conversation needs to happen in a conference room. Breakout spaces give teams a place to chat, relax, or even play a quick game. They’re the go-to spots for building relationships and taking a mental break from work.

  • Easy Fix: Set up a cozy seating area with sofas, a coffee station, or even a few board games. Make it inviting so people feel comfortable stopping by for a chat.

10. Making the Office Accessible and Inclusive for All

Wellness means creating a space that works for everyone, including those with accessibility needs. An inclusive design shows employees that they’re valued, no matter what.

  • Easy Fix: Make sure hallways are clear, doorways are wide enough for wheelchair access, and consider height-adjustable desks. These small adjustments can make a big difference in how supported and included people feel.

Measuring the Impact of a Wellness-Oriented Office

The best part about creating a wellness-focused office is seeing how it affects people. Tracking some key areas can help you understand what’s working and where there’s room for improvement.

  • Employee Feedback: Regular check-ins or surveys let you know how people feel about the space. It’s a good way to spot trends and pick up on anything that needs adjusting.
  • Productivity and Retention: A positive environment often leads to higher productivity and fewer people wanting to leave. Look for changes in performance, engagement, and retention.

Real-Life Inspiration: Companies Making Wellness Work

Big names like Etsy and Airbnb have set the bar high with wellness-focused office designs. Etsy’s office in Brooklyn is filled with natural materials, plants, and open spaces, creating a calming atmosphere. 

Airbnb’s flexible spaces and quiet rooms let employees work in ways that best suit their needs. But remember, you don’t need a big budget to create wellness; it’s about thoughtful choices that make the workplace feel good.

Making Wellness a Part of Every Day

Redesigning an office to support employee wellness doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank or overhauling everything. Small, mindful changes can make a big difference. By focusing on comfort, natural light, greenery, and spaces to breathe, you can create a work environment where employees feel supported and energized.

Transforming “cubicles into calm” means creating a space that respects well-being and shows employees they’re valued. Wellness isn’t just a trend; it’s a foundation for a happier, more productive workplace. And that’s something every company can aspire to, one thoughtful change at a time.

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This month we are focusing on food and how it affects your mental health. Join us as we bring in the most relevant interesting content from across the wellness segment.

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