Suffering from corporate burnout?

Yet another outcome of the global financial crisis is rearing its ugly head: a rise in corporate burnout. This is certainly not a new phenomenon, nor one that is likely to go away in the near future. But it is gaining wider attention as more and more people are feeling its effects.

The financial industry seems to claim a large percentage of people affected by burnout. And the recent global "financial" crisis has only exacerbated this problem. The drive to climb the corporate ladder is often a precursor. Working long hours to show senior executives your 'commitment' to get the job done. Not wanting to leave early, let alone on time, for fearing others may get a jump on you. No longer just a bastion of senior management and executives, corporate burnout has increased at all levels of management with the GFC putting added pressure on the 'doers' to get the job done with less resources and staff to share the load.

How do you know if you're suffering burnout? Some of the key signs to look for are:

• anger at senior management or those making demands
• irritability, negativity and cynicism
• blowing up at small or inconsequential things
• frequent headaches/migraines
• weight changes (up or down)
• insomnia and/or depression
• emotional and mental exhaustion
• heart palpitations, shortness of breath
• inability to focus

The effects of corporate burnout on a company are significant and can result in increased employee absenteeism, lower productivity and loss of staff. Companies can help by offering stress management and employee assistance programs and education.

You can also help yourself by following some of these suggested tips:

1. Ensure you're following a proper diet - avoid the quick take-away junk food and late night snacks.
2. Exercise - even 15 minutes a day can help. Take the stairs instead of the elevator; walk to work or ride your bike; do a yoga class before or after work - it's a proven stress reducer!
3. Delegate - spread the workload around or outsource.
4. Take a break - take at least 15 minutes each day to stop and recharge.
5. Plan your day - setting your to-do list at the start of the day can help you stay focused and on track.
6. Sleep - try to get at least 7 hours in every night.
7. Laugh - a good sense of humour is a great stress-buster. Remember to smile!
8. Get away - don’t skip or put off vacation time. Enjoy a weekend retreat to take your mind of the stresses at work.

If you think you're suffering burnout or see it happening with your staff, don't delay in taking action. Your health is your greatest asset and a company’s health is directly related to the health of its employees.

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