Employers, managers and supervisors have a lot on their plate. They are responsible for driving performance and productivity while protecting their team from potential work-related hazards and promoting a mentally healthy workplace.
If you are in a leadership role, you may be susceptible to work-related stress and burnout.
It is important not to neglect your own wellbeing. Research shows that waiting too long to address health issues puts you at further risk of developing severe health complications.
Here are three key reminders to help protect yourself from burnout:
1. Maintain boundaries – This includes taking breaks and structuring time for resilience boosters such as sleep, nutrition and exercise.
2. Recognise the warning signs – Work-related stress or burnout can manifest in the following ways:
• Headaches, tiredness, sleeplessness, slow reactions, shortness of breath.
• Difficulty in decision-making, forgetfulness, lack of concentration.
• Irritability, excessive worrying, feelings of worthlessness, anxiety, defensiveness, anger, mood swings.
• Reduced performance, social withdrawal, impulsive behaviour, increased alcohol and nicotine consumption.
• Compassion fatigue - where you lose the emotional capacity to care about others.
3. Seek support – If you’re not okay, it’s important to speak up and reach out. You can seek support in a number of ways, from speaking to a friend or your GP, to accessing your Employee Assistance Program. Free community resources are also available nationally, such as Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636).
For more information or tailored leadership support, please contact us today.