Employee burnout is a prevalent issue that can negatively impact an individual as well as the entire organization. According to Gallup’s latest report titled “Employee Burnout: Causes and Cures,” nearly 76% of employees experience burnout at work, with 28% of them feeling burned out “very often” or “always.” This leads to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, turnover, and a decrease in employee engagement and job satisfaction.
Signs Of Burnout
Signs of employee burnout include physical and emotional exhaustion, decreased motivation and productivity, increased cynicism or negativity, and a lack of satisfaction or enjoyment in work. Burnout can also lead to physical symptoms such as headaches, stomachaches, and sleep disturbances. It is important for employers to recognize the signs of burnout and take action to address it before it negatively impacts the individual and the organization.
Here are four research-based and effective ways to combat employee burnout:
1. Offer Flexible Schedules
91% of HR professionals agree that flexible work arrangements positively influence employee engagement and retention. By extending the option of flexible schedules and remote work, employees can better manage their work-life balance and avoid burnout.
2. Encourage Team Bonding Activities
Encouraging team bonding activities can improve social support, reduce workplace stress, and improve overall job satisfaction. By promoting a positive work culture and emphasizing the importance of interconnectedness, organizations can significantly reduce employee burnout.
3. Focus on Employee Mental Health
More than 80% of employees believe that prioritizing mental health in the workplace is important. Companies can help employees cope with stress and anxiety by offering mental health resources, such as counseling services and mental health days. Additionally, meditation and yoga can be offered as a proven form of stress relief, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, and improving overall well-being.
4. Prioritize Fitness and Wellness Programs
Offering a comprehensive fitness and wellness program in the workplace can improve the overall well-being, productivity, and engagement of employees. “Prioritizing fitness benefits in the workplace is critical for employee mental health. By providing resources like personalized workout plans, gym access and mindfulness classes, employers can improve productivity, reduce absenteeism and ultimately create a more engaged workforce,” said Dr. Amy Lee, chief medical officer at PEAR Health Labs. Companies can consider partnering with external fitness providers, such as Aaptiv, to offer employees access to a variety of workout options and personalized workout plans.
Aaptiv as a Resource
Aaptiv can be an excellent solution to combat employee burnout and offer a better fitness and wellness program. PEAR Training Intelligence enables Aaptiv’s AI-powered personal trainer, SmartCoach. Aaptiv is uniquely designed to adapt based on the user’s progress to create realistic expectations that help facilitate boosted productivity and improved well-being. Collecting data and feedback on users fitness levels, workout preferences, and progress to constantly adapt their plan to meet their personalized goals. By providing personalized workout plans and on-demand classes tailored to an individual’s fitness level, exercise preferences, and health goals, Aaptiv empowers individuals to take a more active role in their health.
By offering a comprehensive wellness program, companies can help employees prioritize their well-being and health, which can lead to increased job satisfaction, motivation, and engagement, and a decrease in burnout rates.
