Tackling Burnout: Evaluating and Adjusting Goals
This is the last post of our “Tackling Burnout” series and a highly important topic to keep in mind. As we wrap up June, the end of the quarter, and the end of the first half of the year, let’s focus on evaluating and potentially adjusting our goals.
Unrealistic expectations and goals are significant contributors to burnout. A study by Deloitte found that 44% of employees feel burned out at work, with a primary cause being the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations.
As business owners and career-oriented individuals, we hold ourselves to a high standard to achieve the next level. However, it's crucial to ensure that the goals we set are realistic and attainable to avoid burnout. Here are some steps and questions to guide your evaluation:
Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
Are the goals we set for ourselves attainable?
Assess if your goals are realistic given your current resources and time constraints.
Has the vision changed since you set the specific goal for yourself?
Reflect on whether your initial goals still align with your overall vision and priorities.
What progress have we made so far, and have you celebrated the progress you have made?
Recognize and celebrate the milestones you've achieved, no matter how small they may seem.
What more do you have to do to achieve your goal, and is it realistic in the timeframe you have set for yourself?
Consider if the remaining tasks are feasible within the given timeframe. Adjust if necessary.
What happens if you do not reach this goal?
Contemplate the consequences of not achieving your goal and whether it significantly impacts your overall vision.
Next Steps:
Once you have answered these questions, you can identify your next steps, which may include adjusting your goals. Here’s how you can proceed:
Adjust Goals if Necessary:
It’s okay to tweak your goals to make them more attainable. Adjusting your goals does not mean you are lowering your standards; it means you are setting yourself up for success.
Celebrate Progress:
Adopt a “glass half full” approach. Celebrate your progress and successes, no matter how small.
Review Opportunities for Improvement:
Look for areas where you can improve, grow, and learn. Continuous improvement is key to long-term success.
Give Yourself Grace:
Allow yourself the flexibility to adjust metrics or goals that may no longer serve your vision. It’s important to be kind to yourself and recognize that circumstances change.
Adopt a Fresh Mindset:
Enter the new month, quarter, or half-year with a refreshed perspective. Embrace the challenges ahead with a clear mind and a positive outlook.
By keeping these strategies in mind, you can prevent burnout and maintain a healthy balance in your professional and personal life. Remember, achieving goals should not come at the expense of your well-being. Prioritize your mental health, and you’ll find that success will follow naturally.
Let’s tackle the next half of the year with a balanced and mindful approach, ensuring that our goals drive us forward without pushing us over the edge.
