Listen and Learn from your Burnout

Okay, this topic actually deserves a lot more than just a post.

Did you know that 62% of working Australians feel burnout from their professions? That surpasses the global average of 48%.

Now, my feelings toward burnout have changed dramatically over time. Whenever I began to feel burnout—whether it was related to family, friends, partners, or work—I used to push those emotions down. But looking back, if I had truly listened to what my emotions were trying to tell me, I might have been able to identify the reasons behind my burnout earlier and address the issues constructively, rather than suppressing them and creating an even bigger mess.

So, why does burnout happen? Speaking from my own experience, I believe it’s your soul’s way of saying, "Okay, we’re ready to grow." Ignoring that inner voice and suppressing it often led me to develop depressive symptoms, experience emotional outbursts, and feel helpless. At its worst, I faced suicidal thoughts and leaned on chaotic, unhealthy coping mechanisms.

But here’s the tricky part: how do we grow when we’re feeling burnout due to our careers? After all, we need to work to survive, and burnout often leaves us with no extra energy for anything before or after working hours.

The first step is acknowledging the burnout and communicating it. If you’re starting to feel this way, it’s essential to speak to your boss or manager. Let them know you’re feeling burnt out and ask for their advice. Trust me, most managers would prefer an open conversation about burnout over dealing with an employee who suddenly takes multiple sick days. Transparency can pave the way for solutions.

You might be surprised by their response. Perhaps there’s a slow period coming up, and they could arrange for you to take some time off. Maybe they’ll offer a different role or task that aligns better with your current state. It’s even possible that they’ve been considering you for a promotion and want to discuss whether taking on more responsibility could help you feel fulfilled. On the flip side, if your manager brushes off your concerns or responds dismissively, that’s a sign to start looking for a healthier work environment ASAP.

Burnout is not a reflection of weakness. It’s a signal that something in your life needs attention and adjustment. By listening to your inner voice and taking proactive steps, you can transform burnout from a breaking point into a turning point.