Does the very thought of office put you off? Are you calling in sick more often? It could be the sign of a burn-out.

After years of toiling without recognition, a work acquaintance spent most of his days researching interesting subjects online. He said he had come to terms with the fact that his job wasn’t what he thought it would be and that no amount of hard work would help him move up the ladder. So, as soon as his work was done — usually accomplished in three hours — he would spend his time reading in his cubicle. Unfortunately, many people new to their careers discover a disconnection between what they expected and the reality of the job, says Edmonton career coach Laurel Vespi (stonecirclecoaching.com). Those in the “helping professions” like teachers and nurses — are especially susceptible, but everyone can be affected.

Tell-tale signs

The signs of burn-out include feeling unhappy and tired, getting sick more often or feeling physically unwell, disconnecting from your environment, and becoming more withdrawn and cynical. Some people even self-medicate while others turn to Internet games or other methods of disconnecting. “Clock-watching is probably an early sign of burn-out,” adds Vespi. “If you’re always checking the time and not much has passed from the last time you looked, probably something is not working well.”

Happy hours

Vespi is quick to point out that burn-out and overwork are not the same thing. After all, those who are happy at work usually manage extra hours to meet deadlines, without enormous resentment. Those who are truly burnt out will find this hard to bear.

Young ’n’ old

It’s also not an age phenomenon. Younger people are uniquely vulnerable to burn-out. “I think the reason why you see burn-out in them is that in general, youngsters have high expectations about their job and tend to be quite idealistic,” says Vespi. While young workers are less likely to be cynical and jaded, their hopes are high; when the job situation doesn’t match up to their expectations, burn-out is possible. And young people may be less likely to react to burn-out than their older colleagues.

Take care

“I don’t think most people want to graduate from university, start a career and, a year or two later, say, ‘This isn’t what I want’.” It takes a great deal of courage and self-awareness to give up a job or a career that’s a bad fit. As you assess your options, self-care is the key. Make sure to take care of your physical and emotional needs, and try to emphasise your non-work life over your frustrating job, says Vespi. “I think what happens when you face burn-out at work is that it becomes your whole focus.”

Reach out

Turn your focus back to what counts — your family, friends and life outside work (including hobbies and sports). “If you’re miserable at work, and that’s all you have, then you’re just miserable. “If you’re uncertain about how to find a better job or career path, work with a career coach or counsellor to figure out what will suit your aptitude and needs. Burn-out can be avoided to an extent, says Vespi. Career research (internships, job shadowing and counselling) can help you make better decisions, as well as self-reflection. “It is important for people to know themselves really well. What is it that you like, what is it that you don’t like? What are your expectations?” he says.

Sources: The Telegraph (Kolkata, India)