Managers wear a lot of hats and the job can be very demanding. They are responsible for managing the daily operations of their team while also acting as a mentor, coach, project manager, and even conflict resolver. With so much pressure on their plate, it’s no wonder that burnout is quite common among managers. That’s why it is so important to take the necessary steps to avoid burnout so you can successfully lead your team. Here are some helpful strategies for avoiding burnout as a manager.
Resist the Temptation to Micromanage
One of the most common reasons for burnout as a manager is the constant list of to-do’s. After all, as the manager, it’s your responsibility to make sure things get done correctly. While you may feel pressured to do everything yourself or tell others exactly how to do things, you will quickly find that this is not only exhausting, but impossible. Micromanaging will undoubtedly lead to excessive work hours, increased stress, and frustrated employees. Not surprisingly, this can cause burnout. Remember that your role as a manager is to lead your employees and you can do this by empowering them to do their jobs on their own. Establish realistic expectations and clear goals and then give your employees the freedom to accomplish them on their own.
Set Realistic Daily Goals
You may find yourself feeling completely overwhelmed before the day has even begun if you have an excessive amount of work on your daily “to-do” list. Instead of setting yourself up for failure with more tasks than you can possibly accomplish in one day, commit to no more than three things per day that must be completed. Not only will you feel a sense of accomplishment as you complete your tasks, but you will also feel less stressed having a manageable amount of work per day.
Learn to Ask for Help
Managers often feel the need to earn the respect of their peers by proving themselves capable. However, this can often induce stress and set the stage for burnout. Remind yourself that just because you are a manager does not mean you have to know everything. Learning the ropes of management is a process and there will be times when you simply need to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to seek guidance from trusted peers and mentors.
Make Time to Relax
When there is a lot to get done at work, your mental and physical well-being is usually the last thing on your mind. However, it is critical to take care of yourself if you want to be a successful manager. Rest doesn’t always mean you have to take a week long vacation. Rather, it’s something you can do every day to avoid burnout. Be intentional about taking time out of your day to go for a walk, meditate, hit the gym, or simply relax your mind. You need to set aside time to replenish your energy and refresh your mind.
Celebrate Progress
Burnout is often caused by a feeling of stagnation or frustration. Perhaps you feel as if you can never get ahead or you can’t see the light at the end of the tunnel. Seeing the progress you are making every day is hard, so managers need to celebrate small victories along the way. Reflect on the hurdles you have overcome and take time to recognize how far you have come. Even the smallest wins are worth celebrating and can help you develop a more positive mindset.