HOW TO AVOID BURNOUT IN THE WORKPLACE
Burnout isn't just a buzzword — it's a growing problem across UK workplaces. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), over 17 million working days were lost in 2022/23 due to work-related stress, depression, or anxiety, with burnout being a leading cause. It's clear that burnout isn't just an individual issue — it's a business one, too.
So, what is burnout?
It’s more than just feeling tired. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress. It can lead to reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and even long-term health issues.
How to avoid burnout at work
Set clear boundaries: Logging off on time, saying no to non-essential tasks, and taking proper lunch breaks help maintain energy levels and focus.
Take regular breaks: Even a five-minute walk or a tea break can help reset your mind during a hectic day.
Use your annual leave: Don’t stockpile holidays. Taking time off to rest properly is essential — not a luxury.
Talk about it: If you’re feeling overwhelmed, speak up. Whether it’s a manager, HR, or a trusted colleague, sharing the load can be the first step toward relief.
A note for managers: Keep burnout off your team’s radar
Managers play a vital role in supporting wellbeing. Start by encouraging an open, supportive culture where people feel safe talking about stress. Keep an eye on workload distribution, and don’t just rely on performance metrics — notice if someone’s working late regularly, becoming withdrawn, or missing deadlines.
Regular check-ins (not just formal reviews) are invaluable. A simple “How are you doing?” can go a long way when it’s genuine. Encourage your team to take breaks and holiday time, and lead by example — if you're always online at 10pm, they'll feel pressure to do the same.
And finally, don’t underestimate the power of recognition. A little appreciation can boost morale and remind your team they’re not just a cog in the machine.
The bottom line
Burnout is preventable with the right awareness and habits. For individuals and managers alike, it starts with recognising that productivity and wellbeing go hand in hand. Let’s normalise rest, encourage balance, and create workspaces that people don’t just survive but thrive in.
PS If you want to stimulate your brain outside of the workplace, check out the Philosopher-in-Residence blog – out fortnightly on Thursdays, courtesy of Make Me A Plan’s Principal Planner, Anna Pascoe. Browse the latest edition here:
