How to Recognize Job Burnout

A statistic that many are not aware of is the fact that of all modern, developed society in the world, American workers get the least vacation time. In 2005, a poll of United States workers showed that 33 percent of people would even call to check in with their office while they were away on vacation. Over half the workers in the United States also reported high amounts of stress on the job.

From these statistics it is clear to see that in the United States employees are under pressure even when they are away from work. Burnout can easily result as a result of this on top of the fact that people are working longer hours and that in many offices one person must undertake the workload of two people.

While many feel like burnout is something that only happens after being on the job a long time and that it is either a way to get out of a job or simply solved by retirement this isn't the case. There are many physical effects that can be caused by burnout as well. The immune system is affected by stress and burnout which can lead to migraines, digestive disorders, skin diseases, high blood pressure and heart conditions. In addition to physical ailments there is also the issues of the emotional factors involved.

With all these effects involved it is important to recognize job burnout early so you can find solutions to the problem. Consider the following signs that you are suffering from job burnout.

If you used to get along well with your co-workers but now find that you are easily cranky and irritable around everyone you work with. Interpersonal dynamics may not be the only issue in this case, job burnout can be to blame.

You find yourself waking up in the morning and dreading the thought of going to work. If you start watching the clock soon after you finish your lunch break and find you the end of the day just isn't coming fast enough.

If you not longer want to be challenged by a job or you have no motivation to complete a job assignment. People will often loose the motivation to perform or complete a job once burnout started. You may also loose pride in your work and feel no sense of accomplishment after completing an assignment.

If you find you are no longer interested in taking part in the company network or socializing with co-workers. At one time you may have gone to lunch or drinks after work with your co-workers but now it just seems like another chore to take part in company functions.

There are also some common physical indicators that job stress and burnout is occurring. This can include a constant feeling of exhaustion, headaches, tension in the muscles and trouble sleeping at night. These are the indicators that can eventually lead to the physical problems of job burnout.