If your get & go got up & left perhaps you should too!

      How many of these words apply to you?

1. Bored________
2. Exhausted_____
3. Irritated_______
4. Overwhelmed__
5. Underwhelmed_
6. Tired_________
7. Confused______
8. Frustrated_____
9. Angry________
10. Unfulfilled_____

If you checked more than five perhaps you are experiencing burnout in your present job.  According to Websters New World College Dictionary burnout is a "state of emotional exhaustion caused by the stresses of one's work or responsibilities or physical exhaustion, as from dissipation or overwork, and there fatigued, unmotivated, etc."

Does this mean you have a bad attitude, lack work ethic or is something else a factor?    According to About.com (http://stress.about.com/od/burnout/a/mental_burnout.htm) people with Type A personalities and those that tend be perfectionist are more prone to burnout.  These characteristic initially would imply that  you should be a good and desirable worker.  So what went wrong?

Job stress is a major factor in the formation of burnout.  Stress could be the result of working long hours, limited emotional supports, unclear expectations and surviving the proverbial sword of Damocles.  Other less obvious factors that would loss of belief in the mission of the organization, being stonewalled, or the realization that you never liked the job but took it to satisfy other people's expectations.  Being aware of the factors, could help you avoid or minimise the impact of burnout.  Excessive work hours do not allow you the time necessary to recharge your batteries or develop meaningful emotional relationships.  Set limits on your work hours.  Your work expectations should be clearly delineated in your job description.  The personnel department, union representative or supervisor should be able to provide this information.  This information may not be available if your company is undergoing a major reorganization and/or there is a shortage of personnel in key managerial positions.  The lack or consistent management could be fueling your anxiety.  If your company is experiencing financial difficulties and arbitrarily laying people off  then it is easy to believe that your work performance is no longer related to job security.  Having this feeling of impending doom leads to feelings of hopelessness and depression.  Loss of faith in your company could be triggered by realization that one of your core values is being violated or is in conflict with upper management.    

One solution to burnout is to change your job or career.  Many people are reluctant to take this step because of the unstable economy.  However, consider the long term effect that remaining in this environment will have on your health, career and relationship before you decide to remain.  Making this change will take time and careful planning.  If your state of malaise is related to the company's instability, you will need to determine if the entire industry is experiencing a shift.  If it is the industry then perhaps you should explore another career field.  Your local community college could help identify other interest and careers.  If you are just tired of your present position but the industry is relatively stable consider positions in management, training, and qualify assurance.  Your expertise and experience could facilitate this transition. 

Once you make the decision to change, you may feel more energized.  Your work has new meaning because you realize that it is only a means to an end.  Do not linger in your present position any longer than necessary.  Dr Seuss said it best " You have brains in your head.  Your have feet in your shoes.  You can steer yourself any direction you choose.  You're on your own.  And you know what you know.  And YOU are the guy who'll decide where to go."