Stress is undoubtedly a part of many people’s jobs. Whether your job requires working in a kitchen, or managing your organization’s income, there’s a lot of responsibility that comes along with work.

As such, pressure can build. However, there’s a fine line between stress, and burnout.  When the pressure of your job starts to become so overwhelming that it starts to affect every aspect of your life, then you may find yourself facing a serious problem.   People who experience burnout may encounter extreme discomfort emotionally, as well as physically. 

That’s why it’s important to notice the signs of burnout before they occur. To keep you happy at work, and steer clear of potential burnouts, here are some of the most important things to keep in mind.

Practice Self Care

There’s a reason why they tell you in an airplane to put your own oxygen mask on before you help those around you. If you’re running out of oxygen yourself, then how can you possibly hope to carry out your job effectively? 

It’s important that you take time to look out for yourself every now and then. Self-care can come in many forms. For some people it’s getting a good night’s rest, while for other people it’s taking time in the evenings to do something they truly enjoy. Maybe it’s taking a bath, or reading a book. Self-care is whatever it takes to make you feel comfortable, rested, and like you’re taking a break from the daily grind.

Be Positive

There’s an old saying that says “it’s not the problem itself that poses a problem, but rather our outlook on the problem.”  Sometimes avoiding burnout is as simple as changing your perspective on the way things are. 

If you allow yourself to believe that everything is in shambles, and there’s no way to rectify your current stressful situation, then you’re headed in a downward spiral. Instead of having a negative outlook, why not look at things from a positive angle? 

Stop being cynical, angry, and negative. Try to start looking at situations as potential problems to solve and focus on solutions not problems.  You’ll find your stress levels significantly shift.

Delegate

One of the leading causes for work burnout is taking on too much yourself. It’s important that you know how to delegate effectively. If you can’t take on all of your work yourself, then find a way to enlist help. 

Ideally, you work with a team of other people who can help pick up the slack if you’re falling behind. Sometimes, it’s OK to admit that you need help, and you must be willing to accept it.

Know The Signs

It’s important that you know the signs of a burnout so that you don’t find yourself on the verge of one. The signs of a burnout are usually irritability, lack of motivation to continue going to work, and inability to think of anything else other than your job. Once you start to notice the signs, take the steps next to reel it back in to find work life balance.