Guest Post by Alexis Bonari

If it seems as though you are starting to take forever to finish work assignments or if you feel as though any task that is given to you makes you want to run and hide, you may be suffering from work burnout. Extremely long working hours, unrealistic deadlines and other tedious work related problems can start to contribute to low moral and a reduction in productivity. Below are a few more indicators that you may be starting to run on empty:

  • Trouble getting out of bed when its time to go to work
  • You are starting to come to work later more often
  • Your job performance is starting to get you down
  • A feeling of being withdrawn
  • You are constantly watching the clock
  • The stress of work is starting to effect your home life
  • You are starting to get into arguments or disagreements unlike before with your superiors
  • You feel no progress is being made even though you feel you are trying your best

If these symptoms sound like something you can relate to, it might be time for a change.
Below are a few helpful hits to get you back on your career track.

1. Schedule
Time management can really help you rebound from job exhaustion. If you feel like you are taking on much or more then you can handle, prioritise, you may realise you are creating unnecessary extra pressure. Try keeping a simple record of what is expected from you at work and see it as one project at a time. If you have a presentation and emails pending, do the task most needed first them move on from there.

2. Hone on the Pressure Source
Understanding what contributes to the pressure and what makes your decline in motivation can help you move in a more positive direction. Really think about what has been adding to your burnout: Is it the feeling that projects of work projects being  out of control? Have your own actions maybe added to the problem? For example, you may have made an overly ambitious time line for having an assignment done, creating unnecessary stress and worry for its success. Small changes in your routine, such as seeking help  from your manager when you have too many assignments, can help lighten up your load.

3. Its OK To Get Some Help
Common symptoms of burnout is feeling of isolated. You may think no one will understand or complete the project as well as you based on your knowledge of it, but someone else might bring in a fresh outlook and take away some of the burden.
It’s perfectly alright to let others in on the fact that your having a hard time and need some help. As long as you do it professionally you wont be perceived as a complainer, Just address the specific issue and ask for the best way to achieve it.

4. Break Time!
Even if you’re working long hours, you will def need a recharge. Take 10-minute breaks throughout your workday. Even if all you can do is stretch or go for a quick walk. Eat lunch at your desk instead of outside. Going outside, can give you a new outlook on your situation and you will return with a new outlook and energy.

Stress is normal for any job, but when it gets out of hand, it’s important to be proactive. Burnout can effect your job performance but most of all your overall life. If you just make a few easy adjustments, you can regain your ability for optimal job performance and stress free living.

About the Author:
Alexis Bonari is a freelance writer and blog junkie. She is currently a resident blogger at College Scholarships.org. In her spare time, she enjoys square-foot gardening, swimming, and avoiding her laptop.