Work Burnout or Something Deeper? How to Uncover the Root Causes of Your Work Frustrations
Burnout is common in our work-focused culture. But sometimes, our frustrations stem from more than just overwork. Here, we’ll explore how to identify burnout and ways to delve deeper into what’s really going on.
1. Identifying Burnout
Before delving too deep, consider whether burnout might be at play. Here are some signs to look for:
Physical Signs: Fatigue, headaches, or even sleepless nights.
Emotional Exhaustion: Feeling overwhelmed or emotionally drained.
Dips in Productivity: Not feeling able to complete tasks with the usual efficiency.
If these signs sound familiar, take a closer look at their origins.
2. Understanding What’s Behind the Burnout
Is it workload, or something deeper? Exploring your dissatisfaction can be eye-opening:
Is it the Type of Work? Sometimes, it’s not the job itself but the specific tasks that create friction.
What’s Missing in Your Work? Consider whether you feel undervalued, unsupported, or disconnected from your work’s mission.
When you can identify what’s behind your stress, it’s easier to decide your next steps.
3. Tips for Clarity: Journaling and Trusted Conversations
Once you’ve identified burnout, consider these exercises to find clarity:
Journaling Prompts: Write about your current job and its emotional impact, focusing on what brings joy and what drains you.
Trusted Conversations: Share your thoughts with a mentor, friend, or family member who knows you well.
These steps can help reveal whether you’re truly ready for change or simply need a different approach in your current role.
4. Therapy as a Tool for Career Exploration
In therapy, I use Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help clients process and release unresolved emotions tied to work stress. These methods can ease anxiety, improve focus, and help you understand your feelings better, giving you a clearer path forward.
Burnout can often be managed, and understanding the root of your dissatisfaction can be the first step in finding a more fulfilling direction.
