Exhausted at work? 10 burnout warning signs you shouldn't ignore
Exhaustion
Burnout-related exhaustion is persistent and overwhelming. It feels like a constant, heavy fog, making even simple tasks burdensome.
Reduced Efficacy
Burnout often results in reduced work performance. You may notice a decline in quality, or if performance remains high, it requires more effort, focus, and energy than before.
Changes in eating or sleeping habits
Burnout can disrupt your eating and sleeping patterns, leading to overeating or loss of appetite, as well as excessive sleeping or insomnia.
Losing motivation Tasks that once felt easy now seem difficult to start or sustain. Burnout often leads to a loss of interest and morale.
Increased illness
Burnout can weaken your immune system, making you prone to frequent illnesses, like cold, flu, and other infections.
Anger or irritability Small issues can cause frustration and irritability, often leading to strained relationships with colleagues, friends, and family members.
Loss of enjoyment Hobbies and activities that used to bring pleasure now feel dull and uninteresting, a common sign of burnout taking hold.
Concentration issues
Burnout can make it difficult to concentrate or stay focused on tasks, both in your professional and personal life.
Depersonalisation
A sense of detachment from work can develop, leading to a loss of passion for the job that once inspired you.
Anxiety
Burnout often heightens anxiety, causing persistent worry about work and everyday responsibilities, making it hard to relax.