Pixabay
In today’s fast-paced work environment, burnout is a common issue that affects many individuals. More so, it can have serious consequences on both personal well-being and professional performance. However, recognizing the signs of burnout in colleagues can be crucial for offering support, thus preventing further escalation. Here are 18 warning indicators to look out for:
1. Physical Exhaustion
Pixabay
One of the most noticeable signs of burnout is physical exhaustion. Your colleague may appear constantly tired, note they are having trouble sleeping, or complain of frequent headaches or muscle pain. If that is the case, do not brush it under the rug as it could mean much more than just a bad night’s sleep.
2. Emotional Drain
Pixabay
Emotional exhaustion is another key indicator. Your colleague might seem irritable, moody, or easily frustrated. They may also display signs of apathy or disinterest in their work. Check in on them to see if they need anything, even just a cup of coffee or a bottle of water can show that someone is looking out for their wellbeing.
3. Reduced Performance
Pixabay
A noticeable decline in performance is often a sign of burnout. Your colleague may struggle to meet deadlines, or they may make more mistakes than usual. Additionally, it may seem that they are distracted or have difficulty concentrating while in the workplace.
4. Increased Absenteeism
Pexels
Frequent absences from work, especially due to vague reasons such as “feeling unwell,” can indicate burnout. Your colleague may also arrive late or leave early more often.
5. Cynicism and Detachment
Pixabay
Burnout can lead to feelings of cynicism and detachment towards work. They may not appear as invested in the position or company as they once did. Additionally, your colleague may express negativity about their job, colleagues, or the organization as a whole.
6. Lack of Motivation
Pixabay
A lack of motivation or enthusiasm for work is another common sign. They may be pushing through to do the work just to get it over with. Your colleague may no longer seem interested in their tasks or projects, even ones they previously enjoyed.
7. Difficulty Concentrating
Pixabay
Burnout can impair cognitive functions. This could be making it hard for your colleague to concentrate or make decisions. Though unintentional, they may seem forgetful or easily distracted, as if they are not paying attention. This will not only affect their job performance but the team as a whole.
8. Increased Errors
Pixabay
As a result of reduced focus and concentration, your colleague may make more mistakes than usual. This could be in their work, communication, or decision-making. It could be due to lack of sleep, feeling unwell, or not paying attention to the smallest details because they are not invested any longer.
9. Neglecting Self-Care
Pixabay
Burnout often leads to neglecting self-care. Your colleague may stop exercising, or their eating habits may begin to change. They may start eating poorly or no longer do things that make them happy when out of work. Finally, they may come to work appearing disheveled as the insides reflect the outside.
10. Isolation
Pixabay
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out individuals may isolate themselves from their colleagues. Your colleague might avoid social interactions or lunch breaks with coworkers. Instead of gathering together, they will sit at their desks or find solace in their cars.
11. Pessimism
Pixabay
A negative outlook on work and life, in general, can be a sign of burnout. Your colleague may express a sense of hopelessness. At the same time, they may believe that their efforts are futile even if they are not.
12. Increased Irritability
Pixabay
Burnout can make individuals more irritable or impatient, with themselves or with others. Your colleague may react angrily to minor inconveniences that occur. They may also take unkindly to any form of criticism which can cause more problems in the long run.
13. Health Issues
Pixabay
Chronic stress from burnout can manifest in physical health problems. Your colleague may experience frequent illnesses, such as colds or infections. This circles back to the absences, coming in late, or leaving early.
14. Difficulty Sleeping
Pixabay
Insomnia or other sleep disturbances are common among those experiencing burnout. Your colleague may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. This is not something they may outwardly say. However, it could come up casually if they are seen yawning a lot and they note they did not have a good night’s sleep or failed to sleep in general.
15. Loss of Interest
Pixabay
Burnout can lead to a loss of interest in work and other activities. Your colleague may no longer find pleasure in things they used to enjoy. When asked about what they did after work or over the weekend, they may say “nothing” or not respond as opposed to “golfing,” “reading,” or various activities/outlets they used to gush on about.
16. Increased Use of Substances
Pixabay
To cope with burnout, some individuals may turn to substances such as alcohol or drugs. Your colleague may exhibit increased use or dependence on these substances. That could be alarming especially if this was not behavior they previously participated in.
17. Neglecting Responsibilities
Pixabay
Burnout can result in neglecting responsibilities at work and home. Your colleague may fail to complete tasks or fulfill commitments. That may be seen in the workplace if they appear to be scrambling to multitask work with home life as they have dropped the ball.
18. Seeking Perfectionism
Pixabay
Ironically, burnout can sometimes drive individuals to seek perfection in their work. Your colleague may become overly critical of themselves and others.
Time To Take Note
Pixabay
At this point, recognizing the signs of burnout in colleagues is essential for maintaining a healthy work environment. By recognizing and understanding these warning indicators, one can better offer support and resources to help colleagues overcome burnout and thrive in their roles. If one domino falls, they all do and then everyone is left picking up the mess. This is absolutely avoidable and remember this: their success is your success. Finally, you would want them to care for you in the same way.
Mandi Nowitz has been a professional freelance writer since 2010 and proudly holds
both a BA and an MA. She enjoys concerts, iced coffee, spending time with friends,
summertime, and Christmas when she is not glued to her laptop. Mandi currently
resides in Connecticut with her fiance, and kitties, and credits her mother with
encouraging her to follow her creative dreams.