Nina Nesdoly, founder of Workplace Clarity, closed the MHI event season with an engaging and inspiring talk on how to “Beat Burnout, Manage Workplace Stress.” Nina grabbed our attention from the first moment by sharing a time of her life when she pushed herself way too hard, to the brink of disaster. Here are a few takeaways from Nina’s talk.

Workplace burnout is widespread.
Burnout is a work-related phenomenon that often intensifies because it is not recognized.
Symptoms of burnout are emotional exhaustion, cynicism and depersonalization, and reduced professional efficacy.
Burnout occurs when the demands on a person exceed the resources.
If we are headed towards burnout, we need to build and recharge our resources, starting with what is available to us.
Stress is stored in our body, so exercise and deep breathing are a good place to start.
We can also seek social support, for example, strengthening our connections with co-workers.
Take baby steps to restoring work-life balance—take a break, take a vacation day.
Persons at high risk for burnout are perfectionists, people-pleasers, and those with type A personalities.
Just trying to push through is NOT a good idea.
Ask yourself “Do my efforts align with my goals?”

If you missed Nina’s talk or wish to share it with someone who is undergoing a stressful time, a video of her talk is available here.