DISCLAIMER: Burnout and stress are two different things!
Often, people confuse burnout with stress. Stress arises when you're juggling multiple tasks, leaving you feeling overwhelmed. The typical approach to managing stress is finding ways to get everything under control and experiencing a sense of relief afterward. Burnout, however, is more like squeezing the last drop out of an empty toothpaste tube. Burnout is when you feel drained and unmotivated, as if you have nothing left to give. It can be easy to mistake stress for burnout, and you might end up pushing through with an unsettling feeling. Recognizing the difference is important so you can take steps to care for yourself.
Indicators of Burnout in the Legal Profession
If you’re unsure whether you're burnt out, here are five common signs:
Feeling Constantly Drained: Do you find yourself feeling exhausted even after a full night's rest? This constant fatigue might be a sign that your responsibilities are taking a toll. It could mean you need a break!
Being Easily Triggered: Are you easily triggered by clients' questions or concerns about their cases? If you've noticed you're more agitated than usual or losing patience, this might be due to exhaustion and burnout.
Lacking Motivation: Do you find yourself feeling unmotivated when trying to complete even the simplest tasks? Have you been struggling to get through your workload despite all efforts? Make sure you aren’t overworking yourself to the point of breaking.
Decision Fatigue: Are you feeling stressed or exhausted when making decisions? If everyday decisions bring on feelings of panic or anxiety, decision fatigue could be setting in.
Decreased Satisfaction and Sense of Accomplishment: Do you find it hard to acknowledge your growth or progress? Has embracing your success become a challenge? Remember not to be overly critical of yourself at work and in your everyday life.
Taking Care of Yourself
If you identify with any of these symptoms, know that you’re not alone. Many people in high-demand jobs often experience burnout at some point. As we focus on our work, it is important to remember that well-being should come first. Recognizing when we need a break is the best way to stay motivated.
Need Resources and Support?
If you're looking for ways to prevent burnout, check out our tips on establishing boundaries as a lawyer.
If you’re already facing burnout and need support, Honest Hour is here for you! Our therapist, Sierra, specializes in helping legal professionals manage chronic stress and anxiety. She is currently accepting clients in Maryland and DC. Click here to learn more.
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