We often think of burnout as something that happens when we work too many hours.
But usually, it’s about carrying a load without the support to sustain it.
Whether it’s being the mediator between two siblings at home or the “middle man” between a difficult client and a contractor at work, triangulation (the technical term for being stuck in the middle)is exhausting.
Contrary to popular ideas, burnout isn’t just a mood; it’s a measurable experience.
As you look at your own capacity this week, I invite you to notice if you are feeling these three specific markers:
- Exhaustion. Fatigue at the very idea of work (or home labor), chronic tiredness, and trouble sleeping. Unlike depression, these often lift when you are away from the source.
- Depersonalization. A loss of empathy or a sense of “dehumanization.” You might feel cynical, detached, or find yourself withdrawing into yourself to survive social contact.
- Reduced Personal Achievement. Assessing yourself negatively and feeling unable to move the situation forward. You begin to doubt your genuine ability to accomplish things despite your best efforts.
Before we can alleviate the burnout, we have to find our own “Seat” again so we can step out of the middle without feeling like we’re abandoning the team.
This Saturday, we’ll be Settling In to our seats together and exploring how and where burnout is showing up.
Take a deep breath, today.
You’re (still) doing better than you think,
LaShawn