I think I'm burned out?

Anonymous

March 28,2022 at 2:33PM UTC

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I think I'm burned out?

I started my demanding and challenging position in August 2020. The company is a small country club. That being said starting this role I thought I was going in for a specific position but now a year and a half later I've learned that this job wears multiple hats. I started to feel the effects of a burn out about a year ago with a transition in management at the club and becoming overwhelmed with the work load. But at the time I knew I was needed for the company. I left a wonderful company previously due to Covid eliminating my position and being displaced into a new one that wasn't fitting, so I knew what kind of company to want to be with. This definitely wasn't it. With all of that background of this role and what was going on, my first sign of a burn out was seeking employment back with my previous company. With no such luck, I started venturing out. Fast forward we got a new manager at our club and I thought the company was turning around on a positive note. Foreshadowing it did not. This manager less than a year later was fired. Now here I am overwhelmed, overworked, and underappreciated. I had a situation with our current manager this weekend after being "reprimanded" and being thrown under the bus by a coworker, but regardless the toxicity of the environment is stressful and I feel anxious even coming to work. Today on my way in I thought, what would happen if I just stopped showing up.... but then again I have a family and too much on the line to jeopardize that situation. I am starting to look for other positions but management/director positions are difficult to come by in my area, so until then I guess I'll live with the burn out? How does one handle the signs and symptoms until you find another job? I have a ton of responsibility and obligations currently but also I'm planning an escape, how to I do this successfully?

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AnonymousMarch 28,2022 at 5:22PM UTC
The way way to survive "in the meantime " since you are not in a position to take the time off you really need, I would suggest:
1. Taking Fridays off if you have PTO off. You can either explain why and discuss with your manager or make up an excuse.
2. Make very sure you control your schedule and work on only what needs critical attention. No OT and no unnecessary meetings
3. Pay closer attention to your rest and downtime. Cut out personal obligations wherever possible. Get your rest. That means limiting screen time and noncritical errands. Discuss your health concerns with family and friends and ask for help
4. Schedule breaks during your workdays and "alone" time on personal days. Go for walks in nature, practice meditation and try a stretching class or yoga
5. Listen to your body. Go see your doctor for routine blood tests to ensure you're not running yourself down, do not have any vitamin or mineral deficiencies and your general health is good.
6. Finally, if things get too overwhelming, find out if your company offers EAP. If so find a therapist that can help walk you through this period. It can be in person or via online. It's nice to have a professional to support by being a sounding board and even make health strategy suggestions to fortify you. It something you can do support you while you prepare for your next career step.
Good luck and remember to breathe.
AnonymousMarch 29,2022 at 3:07PM UTC
"Now here I am overwhelmed, overworked, and underappreciated" - really struck me! Let's tackle each one:
-If you're overwhelmed at work, Brené Brown has some great advice: https://fairygodboss.com/editorial-content/brene-brown-says-to-avoid-this-1-word-at-work-unless-you-really-mean-it
-Overworked: your relationship with your manager seems fraught, but can you have a conversation about responsibilities?
-Underappreciated: do you have any coworker allies to lean on? Unfortunately, appreciation may have to come from outside of work.
Set your boundaries and do your best to find a position you truly can thrive in. We're cheering you on!