The Future of Work is Here, Employee Burnout has to Go
Summary: The pandemic era saw a surge in work burnout, with Indeed's survey indicating over half of employees feeling its brunt. With burnout now recognized as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization, the corporate world is stepping up its efforts. Brands like Nike and Bumble have given additional time off to address this pressing issue.
Jennifer Moss, a renowned expert and author of “The Burnout Epidemic: The Rise of Chronic Stress and How We Can Fix It,” provides invaluable insights into combating this challenge. Moss emphasizes the importance of genuine communication between employers and employees. She suggests regular 15-minute check-ins to assess well-being, focusing not just on work but holistic wellness. Key questions include assessing the week's highs and lows and understanding support needs.
Moreover, Moss notes the "Great Resignation" trend, where employees, armed with “cognitive gratitude” post-pandemic, seek more meaningful connections with their work and leaders. This shift in mindset, paired with burnout, requires businesses to realign their retention strategies.
In conclusion, Jennifer Moss's contributions underscore the importance of mental health prioritization, open communication, and flexible workspaces in a post-pandemic world. Addressing burnout is not just about reducing workloads but fostering an environment where employees feel understood and supported.