I’m not sure I know anyone that enjoys 100% of their job 100% of the time. I myself have found myself extremely frustrated with my job over past several months. It is not the work that I do that I do not enjoy, or even the people that I work with on a personal level. It is the management structure we have taken on since our manager was fired and our CEO decided not to find a replacement and the lack of work ethic among my co-workers. I saw this article on “Avoiding Burnout” and thought to myself, who doesn’t feel the on-set of at least some of these issues at work?
Early Warning Signs of Work Burnout
1. chronic fatigue - exhaustion, tiredness, a sense of being physically run down
2. anger at those making demands
3. self-criticism for putting up with the demands
4. cynicism, negativity, and irritability
5. a sense of being besieged
6. exploding easily at seemingly inconsequential things
7. frequent headaches and gastrointestinal disturbances
8. weight loss or gain
9. sleeplessness and depression
10. shortness of breath
11. suspiciousness
12. feelings of helplessness
13. increased degree of risk taking
Yesterday’s Sunday school lesson was a reminder to me of my need for humility and grace when dealing with my co-workers and my boss. And that I must continue to be example to those around me of God’s character and His purposes for my life. I must always be mindful of this eternal purpose (putting on God's character) and goal (receiving Christ’s crown of glory).
1 Peter 5: 5 – 7
All of you, clothe yourselves with humility toward one another, because,
"God opposes the proud
but gives grace to the humble.” Humble yourselves, therefore, under God's mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.