As an executive leadership coach, one of the most common concerns I hear from leaders is the fear of burnout. Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can lead to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and even health problems. As a leader, it’s essential to be aware of the warning signs of burnout and take steps to prevent it.
The nine warning signs of burnout in leaders are:
Exhaustion: Physical and emotional exhaustion is a common symptom of burnout. Leaders who are feeling burned out may feel tired, run down, and lack energy.
Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping is a common symptom of burnout. Leaders who are feeling burned out may have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
Loss of motivation: Leaders who are feeling burned out may lose interest in their work and find it difficult to stay motivated.
Increased absenteeism: Leaders who are feeling burned out may take more time off work, either to rest or to avoid the stress of their job.
Decreased productivity: Leaders who are feeling burned out may find it difficult to focus, make decisions, and be productive.
Negative attitude: Leaders who are feeling burned out may have a negative attitude towards their work and colleagues. They may be easily irritated and have little patience for others.
Detachment: Leaders who are feeling burned out may detach themselves from their work and colleagues. They may feel a lack of engagement and interest in their job.
Health problems: Leaders who are feeling burned out may experience physical health problems such as headaches, stomach problems, and even heart disease.
Substance abuse: Leaders who are feeling burned out may turn to alcohol or drugs to cope with the stress of their job.
If you recognize any of these warning signs in yourself or in a leader you know, it’s important to take action immediately. Burnout can have serious consequences for both the individual and the organization. As an executive leadership coach, I recommend taking time off, practicing self-care, and seeking professional help if necessary. It’s important to address burnout early on before it becomes a more significant problem. Remember, as a leader, you are not alone and you deserve to take care of yourself.
Lead From Within: Burnout is not just an event and it’s not the result of too much work, it’s the result of not enough self-care.
#1 N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
The Leadership Gap
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.