If you're stressed by your job, enjoying time off from work may be just what the doctor ordered for your adrenal fatigue. Reasons for job dissatisfaction are many, and they can include spending an inordinate amount of time at work, feeling alienated, dealing with hypercritical and unfriendly coworkers and bosses, and feeling a lack of ownership and motivation for the job you're paid to do.
Before making any major work-related decisions, know where you stand and what your goals are.
How to recognize the need to take time off
Burnout is the term psychologists use to describe diminished interest in work. You could quit your job, but for most people, that's not an option.
If you're at least aware of burnout, you can recognize when you need to take some time off work to recharge your batteries.
One of the biggest misconceptions concerning burnout is that it depends on the number of hours you spend at work. Although that's a significant contributing factor, it isn't the whole story. Other factors can include
Work-family dysfunction: You may spend more time with your work family than with your regular family. That means you're putting up with personalities, values, and behaviors that may not match yours.
Lack of socialization: Maybe you sit in a cubicle all day and don't interact with another human being during your whole shift. People need some degree of social interaction, feedback on work performance, and planning and expectations concerning the job itself.
Lack of autonomy and empowerment: Studies show that workers feel empowered when they have some say and have some flexibility to have that say about the final product (or at least the process). It's not just about money. What can be depressing is the feeling that you don't matter and that no one cares what you think.
Burnout is actually a classified syndrome. The earlier you recognize the symptoms, the better your chances of getting better. The advanced stages of burnout syndrome can include clinical depression and thoughts of suicide.
A holistic treatment strategy is often needed in treating burnout syndrome, and that strategy can include cognitive behavior therapy, which focuses on thought patterns as well as internal and external influences that can affect your thought patterns.
Use your vacation days
When was the last time you took a vacation? If you have to think for more than a few seconds, then you definitely need to take one!
Give yourself permission to do whatever you consider to be fun on your vacation. It is important that you relax, have fun, and enjoy!
Here are a couple of ways to help you relax and make sure your vacation stays stress-free:
Don't forget the power of visualization! A few days before beginning your time off, visualize yourself having a relaxing moment, whether that means sitting on a beach or spending quality time with your family.
Avoid work-related technology as much as possible. Turn off the cellphone, shut off the beeper, unplug the computer. Just focus on relaxing!
Switch the amount or location of the work you do
Today's worker has more schedule and location options than ever before. Many employers are looking for ways to decrease costs and increase employee satisfaction. Decreasing to part-time work (if you're able), working at home (WAH), and contracting are options.
The pleasure of part time
Sometimes part-time jobs are advertised. In other cases, you need to suggest to your boss that if you go from full time to part time, you'll increase your overall productivity. The change may also increase your happiness and job satisfaction. Other advantages to part-time work include the following:
It may offer more flexibility.
You can devote more time to friends and spend meaningful quality time with family.
You get some “me” time.
The most obvious casualty of changing to part-time work is your company-paid health insurance.
Work at home
Working at home can not only increase your overall productivity but also increase your happiness and job satisfaction. You may be able to accomplish the same amount of work you normally do but in a lot less time because your work environment is much more pleasant. Being able to work at home offers several advantages:
It eliminates travel time and the stress of the morning and evening commutes.
It saves you a lot of money, including gas, parking, and car maintenance costs.
It allows you to have breakfast with your family and see your kids off to school in the morning. If you work at home, you're there when your kids come home from school, and you can have dinner with your family.
Working at home is not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles that many people face when beginning to work at home is finding “work time.” It's important to establish hours during the day that are yours and yours only so you can get your work done.
The appeal of contracting
Contractors work through a temp agency. Contract jobs often last about 3 months, and the money is better than working as a captive employee.
Some people use a temp agency for finding a new job; others may find contract-based jobs on their own.
Networking is so important when you're thinking about moving on to another position. Every person that you meet is an opportunity to establish a potential contact.
Change your job
Sometimes, you have no choice but to change jobs if you want to reduce stress. Granted, the stress of a job search can be big. But if you can pull it off, a job change may pay off in a big way.
If you've quit your job, been laid off, or are contemplating a career change, the services of a career coach can be invaluable. Where can you find a reputable career coach? An excellent resource is the National Career Development Association.