How to Be Productive Without Burning Out

For better or worse, output is generally considered a key indicator of productivity at work. But when all the focus goes into how much work we’re getting done, burnout is an obvious consequence.

As supervisors, this can be a very difficult thing to manage. How can you lead an effective team that meets goals and expectations while also protecting yourself and your team from burnout?

Our latest Supervisors Community of Practice session featured tips from Kate Vendemio, PMP®, Certified Virtual Facilitator (CVF®), Certified Everything DiSC® Facilitator, Founder & CEO, Mt. Vernon Consulting, on staying productive while maintaining personal well-being.

Below are a few key takeaways, as well as the on-demand video.

1. Do we overvalue productivity these days? Is it leading to a more demanding work culture? Vendemio agreed, saying, “As a Western society, we place a lot of status on how busy we are, and we view being busy as productive.” She added that in reality, this isn’t always the case. Additionally, “with the recent emphasis on government efficiency, there is a whirlwind of pressure” on government workers at all levels.
2. What are the indicators or red flags that burnout is on the horizon? Some of the physical signs that Vendemio mentioned were headaches, difficulty falling or staying asleep, increased irritability and either overeating or not eating enough. Behavioral changes could include a feeling of constant exhaustion, more absenteeism from work than usual, withdrawing (participating less in activities or not contributing as much), or not feeling as confident in your abilities.
3. How can you create balance in yourself and your teams? Vendemio said one of the first steps is realizing, as a supervisor, that you are not infallible. “You are a person as well, and you have the right to feel overwhelmed or burnt out.” While being honest with yourself, it’s also important to build trust with your team and encourage vulnerability. She suggested telling your team if you’re taking a mental health day and encouraging them to take one as well. It builds “a sense of unity” and lets your team know they aren’t the only ones feeling that way.
   

Don’t forget to register for the next Supervisor Community of Practice, Dealing with Distractions: New Approaches for Time Management, on Monday, May 19 at 4 p.m. ET.