We have all seen accurate portrayals of employees who are disengaged in the workplace. For example, take TV series such as The Office, Workaholics and Silicon Valley. Why have these shows been so popular throughout the years? Simply put, it’s because workers everywhere can relate to the odd office behaviors they often witness themselves.
Stepping away from the TV analogy and into today’s workplace, you might encounter at least one type of these employees:
1. the social media addict.
3 out of 5 check or post to social media
2. the shopaholic.
More than half (55%) shop online
3. the immobile.
Almost half (45%) don’t leave their desk during lunch
4. the joker.
40 percent play pranks on coworkers
5. the eavesdropper.
More than one-third (38%) listen in on private conversations
6. the snoozer.
15 percent take naps
7. the TV junkie.
11 percent watch Netflix at work
8. the food thief.
9 percent help themselves to coworkers’ food in the office fridge
9. the boozy bunch.
5 percent consume alcohol
10. the freeloader.
2 percent use company credit card for personal use
While these behaviors give us a good laugh when depicted on screen, they are actually signs of burnout—a natural human reaction to stressful environments or long work days. It’s common to feel exhausted, stressed, distracted or unmotivated, but it is necessary to address the issues at first sight.
It doesn’t take a never-ending vacation, but rather a holistic approach to the way you take on the workday—ultimately boosting productivity and job satisfaction.
1. get a good night’s sleep.
Too little sleep can contribute to high stress levels, which can lead to burnout. Finding the time to log the necessary 7-8 hours of sleep is critical to your overall health and performance on the job.
2. give yourself small breaks.
Stretch your legs, go on a walk or call a friend for 10 minutes. Scheduling mini breaks throughout the day keeps you from being tied to a desk and can help recharge your batteries.
3. find a creative outlet.
Pick an activity outside of work that flexes the other muscles of your brain. Whether it’s cooking, knitting, reading or painting, a personal creative outlet will keep you engaged and motivated while at the office (and let your mind rest when you’re not).
4. ask for help.
For some, it’s hard to admit that you need help on a project or task, but taking on all the responsibility doesn’t get you to a solution any faster. Being supported by a team of people, or even just one person, can eliminate many day-to-day bottlenecks that cause stress and burnout.
The most important thing to remember is that you won’t always be stuck in a rut if you feel yourself taking on these behaviors. You have the opportunity to reset and fix any taxing situation—before you or anyone else causes mass hysteria amongst the office people.
Sometimes all it takes is a moment to reflect on your overall wellbeing to bring back the magic of your job.