Understanding Job Burnout
Job burnout is more than stress; it’s physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by long-term work pressure. For Nigerian professionals dealing with economic uncertainty, long hours, and job insecurity, burnout is becoming more common but is often ignored.
Signs of Burnout
- Constant fatigue even after rest
- Cynicism or disinterest in work
- Irritability and mood swings
- Reduced productivity and focus
- Frequent headaches or sleep issues
If these symptoms last, it’s not just normal stress.
Top Causes of Burnout in Nigeria
- Work overload due to understaffed teams
- Toxic bosses or unhealthy work cultures
- Unrealistic KPIs and performance pressure
- Side hustles on top of full-time jobs
- Remote work blur; no work-life boundaries
How to Handle It
1. Acknowledge It
Burnout isn’t a weakness. Talk to trusted colleagues, a therapist, or even HR.
2. Take a Break
Use your annual leave for real rest, not chores or work-related trips. Even three days offline can help reset your mind.
3. Set Boundaries
- No emails after 8 PM
- Define your offline hours
- Say no to overload
4. Try Remote or Flexible Work
Many Nigerian professionals now ask for hybrid roles or switch to freelance or contract jobs.
Long-Term Prevention Tips
- Regular exercise or walks
- Mindfulness or prayer sessions
- Journaling to clear your thoughts
- Scheduled tech detox days
- Plan sabbaticals or travel getaways when possible
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