Methods to Overcome Exhaustion and Mental Exhaustion
In today's fast-paced world, the relentless pursuit of productivity often leads to an all-consuming state of burnout. This overwhelming feeling is not just causing physical tiredness but is affecting people, particularly Gen Z and millennial women, in a deep-down, soul-weary way [1]. However, there's hope. Transforming one's life through the use of AI-powered tools can lead to better mental health, habits, and overall happiness [2].
According to a study in 2021, 90% of users reported positive changes within 2 weeks of using these AI-powered tools [3]. With over 1.5M+ people currently using these tools, it's clear that they're making a significant impact. The strategies to combat burnout may vary for each individual, and everyone may figure out their approach in their own time [6].
One key aspect of combating burnout is proactive identification. Recognizing the signs early can help prevent burnout from escalating. Personalized mental health care, setting healthier boundaries, taking regular breaks, and fostering a sense of control and purpose in work and life are effective strategies [7].
Organizationally, leading companies are adopting early detection methods like pulse surveys and manager check-ins to identify burnout symptoms quickly [8]. They're also offering fast access to personalized mental health services that track progress and outcomes. Supporting managers with leadership training and mental health resources is crucial since they play a key role in recognizing and mitigating burnout within teams [8].
Creating a culture of belonging and clear purpose helps reduce burnout risks by connecting employees’ roles to meaningful goals and providing career growth opportunities [8]. Individually, it is important to reassess personal goals to align with internal values rather than external validation, prioritize better sleep and stress management techniques, and set clear work-life boundaries [9].
Small changes can make a big difference in combating burnout. For example, taking regular breaks during work—such as stepping away from the desk, practicing mindfulness or short meditation—helps maintain productivity and mental clarity [9]. Eliminating workplace distractions, like silencing phone notifications and using focused productivity methods, further preserves energy and focus, preventing exhaustion [9].
Feelings of control and empowerment are vital. Managers should avoid micromanagement and instead adopt a coaching approach, supporting employees to identify their own solutions and options [10]. For Gen Z and millennial women, who may face unique pressures related to ambition, social expectations, and seeking meaningful work, leaders modeling healthy boundaries and self-awareness also set a powerful example [4].
It's important to remember that it's okay not to be okay all the time. Recognizing that it's not healthy to expect constant "on" status is crucial in combating burnout [5]. Machines need downtime, and humans should not be expected to be any different in this regard [11]. The website offers solid advice and potential rescue plans for those experiencing burnout [12].
In summary, effective burnout strategies combine early organizational intervention, supportive leadership, personalized mental health care, empowerment through autonomy, regular restorative breaks, boundary-setting, and alignment with personal values and purpose, all tailored to the needs and experiences of younger working women today.
References: [1] https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/feb/10/burnout-how-the-pandemic-is-affecting-women-of-colour [2] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoaches council/2021/08/18/how-to-prevent-burnout-during-the-pandemic/?sh=7c45701310e2 [3] https://www.fastcompany.com/9077589/burnout-is-a-growing-epidemic-heres-how-ai-can-help [4] https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-burnout-crisis-among-women-of-color [5] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-resilience-factor/202103/the-burnout-crisis-is-a-call-action [6] https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/how-to-avoid-burnout [7] https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbescoachescouncil/2021/08/18/how-to-prevent-burnout-during-the-pandemic/?sh=7c45701310e2 [8] https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-burnout-crisis-among-women-of-color [9] https://www.fastcompany.com/9077589/burnout-is-a-growing-epidemic-heres-how-ai-can-help [10] https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-burnout-crisis-among-women-of-color [11] https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-resilience-factor/202103/the-burnout-crisis-is-a-call-action [12] https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2021/feb/10/burnout-how-the-pandemic-is-affecting-women-of-colour
Implementing AI-powered tools in health-and-wellness routines can significantly improve mental health, as supported by a 2021 study where 90% of users reported positive changes within 2 weeks [3]. Furthermore, understanding and addressing mental health through personalized care, setting boundaries, taking regular breaks, and fostering a sense of purpose can help combat burnout effectively.
