Burnout! Why Am I So Tired?

As you go off for the Holidays, I’m guessing that some of you are feeling tired, very tired.  You might even describe yourself as “burned out.”  This burnout is often attributed to long days and long nights on the job, but I’m not sure it’s about quantity at all.  I think it’s about quality.

A manager recently shared this insight:  “I’ve been paying attention to myself and others I work with.  I’m quite confident that it is not hard work that burns people out.  It’s the feeling that their work is fruitless.”

If you agree with her (and I do), I hope you will take this to heart.  If you’re one of the exhausted ones, ask yourself why.  If it’s the work, not just the hours, then what needs to change to make all those hours worthwhile?

If you’re a manager and you’re hearing grumbling about burnout on your team, be honest.  Is it the hours or the work itself?  And what can you do to bring a sense of purpose and accomplishment to your organization?  

If you’re someone who’s work is hard, but for the most part, challenging and satisfying, all you’ll need is some sleep!  But if your colleagues are struggling, is there some way you can support them in thinking through and making changes that will help them keep going?  

But regardless of how you’re feeling as we approach 2011, I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you who’ve been reading my blog.  I’m grateful for your support, encouragement, and feedback.  I wish you all a Very Opposite-of-Burned-Out New Year!