Balance Over Burnout: Rethinking Success in Today's Workplace
Recognition
(Reproduced with kind permission of Beverley Amadasun - who retains copyright - www.amadasuninsight.com)
Burnout is rising, and leaders have the power to change that. Building on my earlier insights from Rebuilding Workplace Morale( Quiet Quitting), we will explore how thoughtful leadership can create a healthier, and a more sustainable work culture.
Many people are emotionally checking out of their jobs, not because they want to, but because they are overwhelmed, undervalued, and burnt out.
Burnout is not just a buzzword; it is a warning sign. And in today's workplace, it is far more common than we would like to admit.
It is time to move from a culture of exhaustion to one of balance and wellbeing, and to rethink what success really looks like.
Burnout is more than just being tired. It is the chronic, compounding stress that leads to exhaustion, disconnection, and that creeping feeling of
"I just can't do this anymore."
But the good news is that it is not inevitable.
In fact, leaders have an enormous opportunity to shift how their teams experience work.
One of the simplest but most powerful things leaders can do is model balance themselves. If they reply to emails at 11 p.m., never taking real breaks, and pushing through at all costs, the team will think that it is what is expected of them.
On the flip side, when leaders prioritise their own wellbeing, set boundaries, take time off, and communicate honestly, they show their team it is safe and smart to do the same.
Creating a culture of wellbeing also means making it okay to talk about mental health.
A quick check-in during a team meeting, asking "how are you really doing?", or even sharing personal challenges, can help to build psychological safety within the team.
People need to know they will not be judged for being human.
And while perks like yoga sessions and wellness apps are nice, they will not fix the core issue, which is workload. When team members are constantly overwhelmed, no reward will make a meaningful difference.
That is why it is essential to rethink how work gets done.
- Are the deadlines realistic?
- Is there enough support?
- Are people expected to always be "online"?
- If the answer is no, it is time to make changes.
Recognition is another powerful tool. A simple thank-you, a shoutout in a meeting, or acknowledging someone's effort can make a big impact. When people feel appreciated, it reduces stress and boosts morale.
Most importantly, let us rethink what success means. It is not just about output. It is about how sustainably that output is achieved. When people feel cared for and supported, they do not just work harder, they work smarter, more creatively, and with more loyalty.
So, leaders, if your goal is to build a workplace where people thrive, not just survive, it is important to start small, set the tone, and lead with care.
And remember, balance is a purposeful leadership decision.
Beverley Amadasun
