Feeling like work is taking a toll on you? You’re not alone. Here are some ways to beat burnout by finding a greater sense of purpose in your work.
Feeling like work is taking a toll on you? You’re not alone. Here are some ways to beat burnout by finding a greater sense of purpose in your work.
Feeling like work is taking a toll on you? You’re not alone. Here are some ways to beat burnout by finding a greater sense of purpose in your work.
Burnout is an increasingly common symptom among the workforce today, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. The World Health Organisation describes it as chronic workplace stress and this can manifest in symptoms most of us can easily relate to: exhaustion, feeling unmotivated by and disconnected from work, and reduced professional efficiency.
But even if you feel like burnout has begun to creep into your everyday life, there are ways to manage your mental health, find a better work-life balance and enjoy your career again.
Here, we look at ways to beat burnout and regain that spark that motivates you.
Volunteering allows you to extend your existing skills, learn new ones and meet new people.
There are many non-profit organisations looking for volunteers to help people in need. Raise accepts mentors to support youth who are struggling with mental health issues, feelings of loneliness, anxiety and bullying. The Australian Red Cross welcomes volunteers to prepare meals for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and various animal shelters such as RSPCA Victoria are always searching for people to care for animals in need of cuddles and walks.
You can also get involved in the community by signing up as a career mentor. RMIT Mentoring welcomes people with skills and knowledge across a range of industries. Sharing your insights is a powerful way to feel engaged and empowered, while also inspiring the next generation of workers.
Helping out is rewarding in more ways than one. Not only does it benefit others, but you’re also likely to feel a new sense of meaning and a lift in self-esteem.
Most contemporary organisations are guided by a set of philanthropic or ethical values. These values help them do more than simply make a profit. Some are focused on making environmental change or driving social equity, and they may be local or global.
To achieve their goals, workplaces often connect with charity partners. Purpose-driven partnerships are a great way for people to feel more motivated by making a positive difference, and many organisations offer paid time off to volunteer.
Reading through and understanding your organisation’s values can also help you connect with goals you might want to achieve in your role, and bring fresh inspiration to your day-to-day responsibilities. For example, if one of your organisation’s values is inclusion, you might like to consider how you can incorporate this value into your performance plan or approach to solving problems.
Because these outcomes are aligned with their work, it can often allow people to see their role in a new light and feel more positive about what they do.
Why not back yourself and take your career in a new direction? It could be a side hustle - something you’ve always dreamed of doing or something that allows you to take your skills to a whole new level. The advantage of working a side gig is you can dip your toe in the water and discover if it’s worth pursuing without leaving the security and stability of your regular job.
If your entrepreneurial light is already shining bright, it may be time to start your own business. It’s an exciting, but daunting step, so it’s well worth seeking out support. You can find advice and education at RMIT Activator, which runs events, workshops and programs to help people take the next step in their journey as an entrepreneur. RMIT Activator is also home to FounderHUB, which helps aspiring and emerging founders, and LaunchHUB for startups.
Recent graduates with a degree in any discipline may consider the Graduate Certificate in Business Administration - a six-month full-time or one year part-time program. With a solid base in the fundamentals of managing and leading a business, the certificate is a kickstart for anyone wanting to follow their own business journey.
Of course, it’s not easy deciding which career path to take. For those who feel stuck at a crossroads, the career consultants at RMIT are there to help with career guidance and industry insights. The professional consultants are there to define your career goals and find the best study options to get you on your way.
RMIT is here to help you achieve your career goals, whether you are just starting out, midway through your career or more advanced. What’s next for you?
Story: Kate Jones
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Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Luwaytini' by Mark Cleaver, Palawa.
Acknowledgement of Country
RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.