Understanding Burnout with Mark Lyttleton: An Emerging Global Challenge
Mark Lyttleton is a respected angel investor, business mentor, and speaker investing in early-stage businesses with a focus on positive environmental impact. Apart from offering strategic guidance, he also assists founders with personal advice, aiding them in navigating the complexities and stress of establishing, managing, and scaling a thriving business. This article delves into the concept of ‘burnout’ as an occupational issue and its role in the current worldwide human energy crisis.
In parallel with the escalating climate crisis, the global community is also confronting a growing mental health epidemic. While the signs of climate change are increasingly evident, from fluctuating temperatures to melting ice caps and extreme weather patterns, a less visible but equally significant human energy crisis is unfolding. A shocking 7 out of 10 individuals globally, as per a Gallup survey, express struggles or challenges related to their mental well-being.
Experts highlight that this human energy crisis is significantly impacting the professional realm. Since the onset of the pandemic, post-work hours have surged by 28%, weekend work has risen by 14% on average, and the typical workday length has extended by over 13%.
The pandemic compelled employers to embrace greater flexibility regarding work modalities and schedules. Nevertheless, without appropriate interventions, this flexibility might exacerbate the prevailing issue.
Responding to the human energy crisis necessitates an evolved workplace environment that is becoming increasingly vital for all organizations. Business leaders face the imperative of actively considering their employees’ energy and well-being at work and ensuring that energy levels are sustainable and realistic.
Throughout history, individuals have toiled tirelessly, often pushing their limits. In light of the human energy crisis, findings from the Work Trend Index reveal an altered perspective on the value of work, with 56% of female respondents and 55% of parents indicating a greater inclination to prioritize their health and well-being over work. This sentiment has translated into concrete actions, as illustrated by Statistics showing that in 2021, the primary reason for resignations was related to mental health and personal well-being concerns.
Burnout is a distinct form of workplace stress characterized by physical or emotional fatigue, coupled with a diminished sense of achievement and personal identity. While ‘burnout’ is not a clinically recognized condition, its repercussions on both productivity and mental well-being are substantial. Some experts suggest that underlying conditions like depression could underlie burnout, and individual factors such as family dynamics and personality traits could heighten susceptibility to it.
To mitigate burnout risks, every organization must empower its employees and provide comprehensive support for the holistic well-being of all workers. Employers should view each individual holistically, fostering professional growth and establishing channels for open feedback to ensure all employees feel valued and empowered.
