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 Q.
I have been very unmotivated at work lately. How can I tell if I am just bored or if I'm burnt out in my current job?
A. That is a very good question. It is sometimes difficult to tell if you are in a temporary slump or if you are completely burnt out of your job and need a change. If you are in a slump, you most likely have a lack of motivation and feel indifferent to your daily functions but aren't ready to make a complete change. It may be that your position has become too routine and a little dull. What you need is something to shake up your routine and reinvigorate your interest. Talk to your manager or coworkers about taking on extra projects that interest you. And reevaluate your responsibilities, focusing on ways to improve on "business as usual." Rededicate yourself to carrying out the company's goals and objectives.
Career burnout is a much more serious matter. If it's more than just boredom you are feeling, and your position no longer fits in with your career goals, it's a good bet that you may be burnt out. In that case, it's time to update your résumé and prepare to make a move.
Here are nine signs* that you are suffering from career burnout:
| 1. |
Chronic fatigue: exhaustion, tiredness, a sense of being physically run down |
| 2. |
Anger at those making demands, and self-criticism for putting up with the demands |
| 3. |
Cynicism, negativity, and irritability |
| 4. |
Exploding easily at seemingly inconsequential things |
| 5. |
Frequent headaches and gastrointestinal disturbances |
| 6. |
Weight loss or gain |
| 7. |
Sleeplessness and depression |
| 8. |
Feeling of helplessness |
| 9. |
Increased degree of risk taking
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If you fit this description, it's time to find out what your unknown talents and skills are. Learn what you're naturally motivated toward with regard to your work. Sometimes a simple change at work can help you avoid many (if not all) of the early warning signs of career burnout.
Betsy Balachandran is the Employment Advisor Coordinator for American InterContinental University Online.
*Source: The Career News, Vol. 5, Issue 26 (July 4, 2005)
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