Feeling Burned Out?
Posted on September 07, 2024 by Jerry Henderson, One of Thousands of Life Coaches on Noomii.
Burnout doesn’t happen because of “what”you’re doing; it happens because of the “why” behind what you are doing.
The difference between our what and our why is everything.
Burnout isn’t merely a result of being busy or overwhelmed with tasks but rather stems from the underlying motivations driving our actions.
When our motivation is rooted in the need to prove ourselves, gain external validation, or meet unrealistic expectations, we are more likely to experience burnout, regardless of how capable or accomplished we may be.
According to a study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, burnout is strongly linked to intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation.
When individuals are motivated by intrinsic factors, such as personal growth, passion, or alignment with their values, they are less likely to experience burnout.
In contrast, those driven by extrinsic factors, such as the desire for approval, status, or fear of failure, are more prone to burnout.
The constant pressure to prove oneself, meet external standards, or maintain a facade of perfection can lead to chronic stress, exhaustion, and ultimately burnout.
A study by Dr. Christina Maslach, a leading researcher on burnout, found that the need to prove oneself often results in overcommitment, reduced boundaries, and a lack of self-care.
This behavior is particularly common among high achievers who equate their worth with their accomplishments. They often push themselves to take on more than they can handle, fueled by the belief that they must constantly excel to be valued or respected.
This relentless drive to prove oneself can create a cycle of overwork, stress, and emotional exhaustion, leading to burnout.
Another factor in what drives people to burnout is “imposter syndrome,” where individuals feel they are not as competent as others perceive them to be and fear being exposed as a fraud.
This fear can drive people to overcompensate by working harder and taking on more responsibilities than necessary, further increasing the risk of burnout.
According to research published in The International Journal of Behavioral Science, nearly 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lives, and this feeling of inadequacy significantly contributes to burnout.
To prevent burnout, it’s important to understand the “why” behind our actions. Are we driven by genuine passion and purpose, or are we motivated by fear, the need for validation, or societal expectations?
By becoming more aware of our motivations and aligning our actions with our true values and desires, we can reduce the risk of burnout and create a more sustainable, fulfilling approach to work and life.
It’s not just about managing workload or time better but about introspecting on the deeper motivations behind our actions.
When we shift our focus from proving ourselves to others to nurturing our growth and well-being, we foster a healthier relationship with our work and ourselves, ultimately leading to a more balanced and satisfying life.
I am grateful you are here,
Jerry
