Burnout in the workplace is becoming an increasingly common issue, affecting employees across all industries. Defined by the World Health Organization as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress, burnout manifests through emotional exhaustion, detachment from one’s job, and reduced professional performance.
According to a Eurostat study, Romania ranks second in Europe for burnout levels. Romanian employees work, on average, over 30% more than the EU average, and 67% experience at least one episode of burnout. For those in temporary positions, the risk may be even higher due to job insecurity and the pressure to perform quickly.
Whether you're in a temporary or permanent role, this article will offer practical strategies to help you prevent burnout and build a balanced, sustainable career.
What Is Burnout and Why Does It Occur?
Burnout is more than just temporary fatigue—it's a condition that develops gradually due to an imbalance between job demands and personal resources. Key contributing factors include:
- Work overload: An APSAP study reveals that the top three fears among employees are: not having time for personal life, making critical mistakes, and failing in major projects. Fear of being overwhelmed ranks third.
- Lack of control: According to a 2022 McKinsey report, the risk of burnout increases when employees lack autonomy.
- Lack of recognition: In Romania, nearly 60% of employees feel underappreciated by their employers, as highlighted by the APSAP study.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted mental health. Recent studies show that over 70% of employees have experienced increased stress and emotional exhaustion due to changes in both professional and personal life.
How to Recognize the Signs of Burnout
The first step in preventing burnout is recognizing its symptoms, which may include:
- Constant physical and emotional exhaustion
- Cynicism or detachment from work
- Decreased productivity or a sense of inefficacy
In temporary roles, these signs can be more subtle, as employees may hide their fatigue to make a positive impression. Smartemp encourages you to stay alert to these signs and take early action.
Strategies to Prevent Burnout
- Set Clear Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life
A study by Regus found that seven in ten Romanians (70%) consider flexible work a key method for reducing stress. Establish fixed working hours and disconnect completely outside of them. In temporary roles, speak with your supervisor about having a predictable schedule. Smartemp partners with employers who promote flexibility, helping you manage your time more effectively. - Prioritize Physical and Mental Health
Health is essential for managing stress. Even a 20-minute daily walk can lower tension and boost well-being. Getting 7–9 hours of sleep per night is also vital for preventing exhaustion. Smartemp advises asking about work schedules before accepting a job to avoid overload. - Build a Support Network
Positive relationships with colleagues help reduce feelings of isolation. In temporary jobs, where integration can be challenging, participate in team activities or initiate informal conversations. Onboarding sessions also help foster connections with new colleagues. - Learn to Say “No” When Needed
Taking on too many tasks is a major contributor to burnout. In temporary roles, the desire to impress can lead to overcommitment. If you feel overwhelmed, speak with your supervisor about prioritizing tasks. - Find Meaning in Your Work
Having a sense of purpose can reduce burnout risk. Even in temporary roles, focus on the impact you’re making. For instance, a temporary worker in logistics plays a key role in ensuring timely deliveries, which are critical for customers. Smartemp encourages you to choose roles that align with your values to stay motivated.
Unique Challenges of Temporary Jobs
Temporary jobs come with their own set of challenges. Lack of job security can cause anxiety, and the fast-paced environment can lead to exhaustion. Specific strategies include:
- Seek clarity on your role: Employees experience less stress when they understand their responsibilities and daily expectations.
- Take regular breaks: Scheduled breaks help prevent physical and mental fatigue especially in fields like logistics or retail.
- Plan for the future: If uncertainty is a stressor, speak with your Smartemp consultant about new opportunities to help you build a more stable career path.
What Employers Can Do About Burnout
Employers play a crucial role in preventing burnout. Organizations that prioritize employee well-being help reduce the risk of exhaustion. Effective measures include wellness programs, flexible work arrangements, and recognizing employee contributions. Smartemp partners with companies that offer balanced and supportive work environments, even for temporary staff.
By setting boundaries, taking care of your health, fostering support networks, and finding purpose in your work, you can protect yourself from burnout. For temporary employees, clear communication and understanding your role are essential steps.
Smartemp te sustine cu joburi potrivite Smartemp is here to support you with the right job opportunities and practical advice to stay motivated and healthy. Start applying these strategies today and build a more balanced career.
Sources
Harvard Business Review: 4 Steps to Beating Burnout
EURopean Employment Services: How to reduce employee stress and prevent burnout
LinkedIn: Statistici actuale despre burnout: semnale de alarma pentru sanatatea mentala
Forbes: Studiu APSAP: Aproximativ 60% dintre angajatii din Romania nu se simt apreciati de angajatori
Mediafax: STUDIU: Angajatii romani sunt din ce in ce mai stresati. Care sunt principalele cauze
McKinsey: Addressing employee burnout: Are you solving the right problem?
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