Here’s one thing we wish more people understood about burnout: A heavy workload doesn’t automatically lead to burnout.
Sure, many folks are juggling a lot of pressure and feeling stretched thin, but they’re not necessarily at risk of burnout. Why? Because they’ve got two crucial things going for them: support and autonomy.
Think about it. It’s not just about how many tasks you’ve got lined up; it’s about having the freedom to prioritize and approach them in a way that works best for you. And it’s about having the backing and trust of your leaders to make those decisions.
This is why some senior-level leaders might scratch their heads when their team complains about workload and burnout. They’re facing similar or even greater pressure, yet they’re not burning out. The difference? They likely have the support and autonomy they need to thrive.
If you’re a leader and notice your team feeling overwhelmed, ask yourself some tough questions: “Do they have the autonomy to make decisions about their work? Am I providing the support they need to succeed? Do they trust me to have their backs if things go sideways?”
Yes, the modern world moves fast, and demands are constant. But quality work takes time. If you want your team to continue delivering top-notch results, trust them, empower them, and support them. That’s the key to preventing burnout in your workplace.