Kandi Wiens, director of the University of Pennsylvania’s Master’s in Medical Education program, explains in her book “Burnout Immunity” that caring too much about your job can lead to burnout, even if you love your work. She interviewed hundreds of individuals in high-stress professions like hospital employees, police chiefs, and financial executives and found that those most at risk for burnout are often those who are passionate about their work and go above and beyond. Jobs that involve helping others, such as health-care workers, counselors, and social workers, also face a high risk of burnout due to the emotional investment and long hours required.
Wiens emphasizes the importance of self-care in preventing burnout, suggesting that setting and upholding work-life boundaries can help create space for activities and relationships that bring joy. For Wiens, this meant committing to no work on weekends, avoiding excessive travel, and learning to say no to requests that would compromise her well-being. She encourages individuals to find what works for them in terms of work-life balance, whether that involves scheduling “do not disturb” time, taking micro-breaks, or negotiating to work from home. Emotional boundaries, such as engaging in meditation or other healthy activities after work, can also help create a clear separation between work and personal life.
Despite the focus on individual self-care practices, Wiens emphasizes that burnout is ultimately an occupational phenomenon and calls for workplaces to take responsibility in reducing burnout among employees. While personal strategies can help alleviate some burnout symptoms, she believes that the burden should not solely rest on the individual but should be shared by employers in creating a supportive work environment. By acknowledging burnout as a workplace issue and implementing strategies to address it, organizations can contribute to the well-being of their employees and prevent burnout.
Wiens suggests that individuals can take steps to protect their mental health and well-being by setting boundaries that safeguard their time, energy, and productivity. By prioritizing self-care and establishing work-life balance, individuals can reduce their risk of burnout and maintain their passion for their work. While finding joy and fulfillment in one’s job is important, it’s crucial to also prioritize personal well-being and avoid overextending oneself. By practicing self-care and implementing boundaries, individuals can find a healthier balance between work and personal life and prevent burnout in high-stress professions.
