12 Flags: Is Your Team Falling Into the Burnout Trap?
Recognizing the Warning Signs
As a manager, it's imperative to recognize how the mindset and behaviors that we often glorify in the corporate world can negatively affect not just us, but our entire team. The mantra of "I'm so busy, but I've got this" is not just an individual concern; it's a team issue. When we, as leaders, ignore warning signs, rationalize stress and dismiss strain, we inadvertently set a precedent for our team that can lead to widespread burnout and decreased productivity. Here are 12 red flags:
- DECREASED ENGAGEMENT - Team members show less interest in their work, participate minimally in meetings or discussions, and seem generally disconnected from their tasks and team objectives
- DROP IN PRODUCTIVITY - There is a noticeable decline in the amount or quality of work as they struggle with their workload
- INCREASE IN ABSENTEEISM - Team members are taking more days off often due to stress-related issues, illness or lack of motivation to come to work
- INCREASE IN TURNOVER - They could be leaving at an unusual rate, often because they are unhappy, stressed or find the work environment unsustainable for their well-being
- INCREASED ERROR RATES - When team members are stressed or fatigued, they tend to make more mistakes - a sign of overwhelm or inability to concentrate properly
- CONFLICT AND TENSION AMONG TEAM MEMBERS: - Increased stress can lead to a rise in conflicts, whether they are open disagreements or underlying tension. This can disrupt team harmony and collaboration
- PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS - Team members might show signs of physical exhaustion, exude low energy, report more headaches. More stress related serious health concerns may start to appear
- MENTAL HEALTH CONCERNS - Signs of anxiety, depression or other mental health issues may arise. This might include expressions of hopelessness, negativity, or a lack of motivation
- REDUCED QUALITY OF WORK - Apart from productivity, the quality of work may be declining and can manifest as less creativity, attention to detail, or thoroughness in completing tasks
- COMPLAINTS ABOUT WORKLOAD OR WORK ENVIRONMENT - An increase in complaints or expressions of dissatisfaction regarding workload, work environment or work-life balance
- DECREASED PARTICIPATION IN TEAM OR COMPANY ACTIVITIES - They are no longer interested in joining team-building activities, company meetings or social events
- CHANGES IN ATTITUDE TOWARDS WORK - This can be observed as cynicism, a lack of enthusiasm, or a negative attitude towards work-related tasks and objectives
It's crucial to understand that the glorification of busyness and the dismissal of stress and strain can have detrimental effects on your team's health and performance. By recognizing the red flags, changing the team's approach to work and fostering a supportive and balanced work environment, you can ensure the long-term vitality and success of your team.
To learn more about a holistic, efficient practice for decreasing stress and fatigue while increasing the energy, health, focus and productivity of your team, go to our Contact us page. We look forward to helping you and your team become the calm in the busyness storm.