Lindsay Kiriakos is an expert who has helped executives at every level, including the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, overcome burnout over the years. However, the unique demands of an ever-changing business and economic landscape have raised executive burnout heavily. Understanding how to diagnose and self-treat this problem can help executives stay healthy.
How Lindsay Kiriakos Manages COVID-Related Executive Burnout
Studies have found that executive burnout has reached nearly pandemic levels in recent years. A FlexJobs and Mental Health American study found that 37% of all executives work longer hours recently, with 73% reporting higher job-related mental health concerns. Dr. Lindsay Kiriakos understands just how much burnout can affect executives.
All burnout is troubling to notice in any work environment. However, executive burnout is severe because these dynamic individuals affect a company’s success at a higher level. Dr. Kiriakos notes that executives have become overworked due to problems with sick employees, troubles with material deliveries, frustrated clients and much more. All these problems have become endemic in recent years.
As a result, Dr. Lindsay Kiriakos says that it is essential to note serious warning signs of executive burnout before it takes over a person’s life. For example, people with extreme responsibilities going through repetitive and prolonged stress or setting high standards may be at a higher risk for burnout. This burnout may also come with multiple related emotions that affect an executive’s life.
For example, they may feel exploited by their coworkers and work too hard, even when they are at the helm of the ship. They may also feel alone, isolated, and incredibly guilty because they don’t live up to their own self-imposed standards or the unrealistic expectations of those around them. Many also feel inadequate and lose their self-confidence, making them directionless. Some might even express serious concerns about their physical and mental health and reach out for expert help.
Lindsay Kiriakos M.D. states that it is crucial to look for early burnout warning signs, like irritability, cynicism, trouble concentrating, reacting emotionally, losing sleep, feeling unsatisfied, experiencing headaches, suffering neck pains, struggling with stomach aches, and noticing extreme exhaustion. If you experience these symptoms, acting quickly is the best way to prevent the burnout from intensifying.
First, Dr. Kiriakos suggests taking a vacation, even if a big project is coming up. Taking some time off is important. Delegate some tasks and let others do your job for you temporarily. After getting some relaxation, you can also change your work habits to ensure that you don’t burn out again. These simple changes can improve your life.
The biggest change is to set time limits for your tasks. Let yourself take breaks and, importantly, let others around you take breaks. Your success is essential, and working hard will get you there. But burning out is only going to hold you back. Studies have found that total productivity goes down when you work more than 60 hours a week. Setting a firm work-life boundary, such as ended work at 8pm (including all texts and emails) can ensure you have some time off each day and limit your overall work hours.
Lindsay Kiriakos M.D. also strongly suggests steps like building a community support network of friends and family members you can turn to when you feel burned out. Reach out to people you haven’t talked to in a while. Find additional personal outlets including sports activities, movie nights, board game competitions, and other relaxing situations that take your mind off work.
