Oct 9
In The Office – I’m Burned Out!
Q. Although I get two weeks vacation each year, our company is struggling, so this year I didn’t take my vacation. I’m totally burned out and still don’t feel like I can leave without risking my job; what do I do?
A. Your dedication, although commendable, is detrimental to you and your company. It’s important to ask yourself “what is the cost to me (my health, my mindset, my confidence, my relationships) and the company showing up to work burnt out and tired?” You cannot show up at your best if you are not taking time to recharge. And the impact of your lack of self-care is even greater if you are managing a team. Being a quality employee and leader is about working smarter not harder.
Before considering vacation time you need to ask yourself, is it in my best interests to remain at a struggling company? And if not, how will I know it’s time to find a new job? Often clients tell themselves they don’t have time to find a new job when the reality is the steadiness of a regular paycheck at a struggling company allows them to put off the search. If you decide to stay, your #1 priority must be to schedule time off. Maybe that means a series of long weekends instead of one or two full weeks – but be resourceful and take the time you are given. Once vacation is scheduled you need to set yourself up for success to take the time when it comes. This means you must get really clear on your work priorities because when everything is a priority, nothing is a priority. As the date for your vacation draws near you want to evaluate progress toward your priorities and determine what it will take for you to leave comfortable and confident with your progress. Remember, it’s not your job to save the company.
Laura Treonze, serves as Chief Life Strategist with LMT Consulting, which helps executives and teams create massive success through self-awareness. Her life-changing approach has transformed individuals and families and has redefined the way non-profits and corporations “do” business.
