Burnout in High Performers: A Corporate Therapy Perspective
In today's fast-paced professional environment, high-performing individuals often find themselves at the brink of exhaustion. While their dedication and drive are commendable, these traits can inadvertently lead to burnout—a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Understanding the unique vulnerabilities of high achievers is crucial in preventing and addressing burnout effectively.
What Is Burnout in Corporate Settings?
Burnout is more than just feeling tired after a long day. It's a chronic condition characterised by:
Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling drained and unable to cope.
Depersonalisation: Developing a cynical attitude towards work and colleagues.
Reduced Personal Accomplishment: Feeling ineffective and lacking achievement.
These symptoms can severely impact an individual's performance and overall well-being .
Why Do High Performers Burn Out in the Workplace?
High achievers often set exceptionally high standards for themselves. Their relentless pursuit of excellence or a goal can lead to:
Overcommitment: Taking on more responsibilities than manageable.
Neglecting Self-Care: Prioritising work over personal well-being.
Perfectionism: An unyielding desire to achieve flawlessness, leading to chronic dissatisfaction and divorcing ones self from their feelings.
Such patterns, while initially driving success, can culminate in burnout if not addressed timely.
The Organisational Impact
Burnout doesn't just affect individuals; it has broader implications for organisations:
Decreased Productivity: Burned-out employees often exhibit reduced efficiency.
Higher Turnover Rates: Chronic stress can lead to increased resignations.
Negative Workplace Culture: Burnout can foster a toxic environment, affecting team morale.
Implementing preventive measures is not just beneficial for employees but is also a strategic move for organisations aiming for sustained success .
A Growing Global Phenomenon of Burnout
Burnout – a state of chronic work-related stress – has become alarmingly widespread among professionals worldwide. Recent surveys indicate that the majority of employees globally experience burnout symptoms to some degree. For example, a Gallup study found that 76% of employees feel burnout at least sometimes, and 28% report being burned out *“very often” or “always”*. Likewise, Deloitte’s workplace survey reported 77% of professionals (in a U.S. sample) have experienced burnout at their current job, with over half saying it happened more than once. Importantly, burnout is not confined by borders – Microsoft’s Work Trend Index identified Australia as having the highest burnout rates in the world, with 61% of Australian workers feeling burned out (versus a 48% global average). These figures underscore that burnout is a widespread international crisis, not just normal occasional stress.
Corporate Therapy Strategies to Prevent Burnout
Promote Work-Life Balance: we encourage employers and employees to set boundaries at work and home, and take/use breaks regularly.
Self-Recognise: the difference between quality attention (span) and quantity attention (span): we only have so much quality attention to give each day.
Foster Open Communication: Create an environment where individuals feel safe discussing their challenges.
Provide Resources: Offer access to counselling and therapy services and stress management workshops, gym memberships, societies and clubs.
Recognise Achievements: Regularly acknowledge and appreciate employees' efforts to boost morale.
Homework: Program in Enjoyment: a minimum of one 30 minute session of a pleasurable/enjoyable activity, exercise or hobby.
By integrating these strategies, organisations can create a supportive environment that mitigates the risk of burnout.
Burnout among high performers is a pressing issue that requires immediate attention. By understanding its causes and implementing proactive measures, both individuals and organisations can work towards a healthier, more productive future.
So, let's start building skills and strategies for burnout today! It starts with a list (goals), continues through action and ends with sustainable wellbeing.
