Navigating Burnout: The Path to Professional Growth and Well-Being
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Chapter 1: Understanding Burnout and Its Impact
In a thought-provoking talk, Emanuel Aragão, a Brazilian philosopher and psychotherapist, delves into the ways WhatsApp disrupts interpersonal connections, likening communication to an edited format that can lead to misunderstandings. He highlights the weight of others' expectations on our time and the toll it takes on our lives.
Aragão introduces the concept of "the aesthetics of burnout," revealing the misconception that perpetual busyness equates to status, when in reality, it only leads to fatigue and burnout.
Why the Need to Be Busy?
In August 2023, I decided to exit all my WhatsApp groups. My parents were initially displeased, but they eventually accepted my choice. Friends were taken aback, with some checking in to see if I was genuinely okay or merely detoxing, as I mentioned. This might seem counterintuitive, especially after relocating from Brazil to the US, where I felt compelled to stay connected around the clock. However, I gradually recognized the deceptive nature of these connections, finding that audio and video calls (like FaceTime or Skype) foster a deeper sense of presence than asynchronous messages.
The day following my silent retreat, I updated my WhatsApp status to read: “Don’t wait for a response. If you need to talk, call or email me.” It was uncomfortable, but necessary. This not only set boundaries but also provided me with inner peace, as it indicated that I might not respond promptly (apologies to my parents, this doesn’t apply to you).
Chapter 2: The Work Culture and Its Demands
In the work environment, we exist in a culture that glorifies busyness and tight schedules. During my tenure in the corporate world, I embodied the quintessential high achiever: exceeding expectations, scheduling endless one-on-ones, attending events, and volunteering for training sessions. My calendar was perpetually packed, leaving little room for respite.
As travel reduced post-COVID-19, the situation escalated. I filled every moment with meetings and tasks, leading to an endless cycle of burnout.
Burnout & Vulnerability: Acknowledging Our Struggles
Looking back, I don’t advocate for this lifestyle. While ambition and determination are commendable traits, they must be tempered with balance. Recognizing your motivations and understanding the 'why' behind your actions is crucial, not just for achieving success but for holistic professional growth.
At times, being a high achiever yielded benefits, but I now believe I could have accomplished similar outcomes with a more composed and patient approach. I aligned my priorities and assessed whether my projects contributed to my satisfaction rather than merely meeting external expectations.
Introspection and self-inquiry are key; as we mature, our decision-making capabilities improve. How can one commit to professional growth while perpetually busy? The answer is clear: it’s unfeasible.
Strategies for Professional Growth Without Burnout
Here are some strategies to help you avoid the burnout trap and focus on your career development:
- Establish clear boundaries with colleagues and learn to say no.
- Assess your capacity for new tasks on a daily or weekly basis.
- Maintain open communication with your supervisor.
- Recognize your inherent value as an individual; your worth is not contingent on others' opinions.
- Separate feedback from your personal identity; understanding this distinction is vital for growth.
- Focus on cultivating both technical and soft skills relevant to your role.
The corporate landscape is shaped by company policies and capitalism, often prioritizing employer interests. It's essential to position yourself where you are valued, not just tolerated.
Having supportive leaders and mentors who care about your professional journey is invaluable. They can facilitate your development and help you thrive in your role.
Mentorship and Advocacy
I often emphasize the significance of mentorship. Seek mentors and turn them into advocates. Build connections and foster relationships, but remember that no one will champion your professional growth more than you will. Be your greatest supporter.
In my corporate experience, I actively pursued opportunities. Whether it was attending conferences or seeking a career coach, I advocated for myself. Each time I made a request, I understood the likelihood of a "no," yet I persisted. This approach led to numerous opportunities for growth and recognition, allowing me to impact others positively.
As we enter 2024, I encourage you to reflect on the following:
- The time you allocate for your personal development away from social media.
- The moments dedicated solely to yourself.
- The importance of valuing your professional journey without comparison.
- Recognize your worth regardless of employment status.
- Offer only what you can realistically provide to your organization.
- Prioritize your health above all else.
With care and reflection,
Mariana