‘Because this is often a creeping process, the level of stress can be tricky to pin down and quantify. We don't wake up one morning to find ourselves in burnout—it is a gradual experience which is another reason why it's so hard to spot.’
This book is an essential read that I believe every organizational leader and head should pick up. It is straightforward and easy to understand, effectively guiding readers through the complex topic of burnout, its causes, and practical strategies to overcome it.
The book is divided into four parts. The first part explains what burnout is, the different types, and includes a brief yet insightful introduction to the neuroscience behind it. I learned that there are three primary types of burnout: frenetic, under-challenged, and worn-out. As someone working in healthcare, I was particularly drawn to the section on compassion fatigue, which is something I am both familiar with and have experienced personally. As I read through this section, I felt seen and validated in a way that was both comforting and enlightening.
The second part delves into what perpetuates burnout and why we often get stuck in it. Here, the author offers some practical tips and strategies. She highlights how our protective, yet ultimately unhelpful strategies—such as perfectionism, people-pleasing, and avoidance of strong emotions—are major contributors to burnout. This section provides not only insight into the cycle of burnout but also actionable steps to begin addressing it.
In the third part, the author explores various methods to overcome burnout. This section stood out to me as especially helpful, as it presents strategies I’m eager to try and integrate into my own practice. I particularly appreciated the inclusion of real-life examples from the author's own clinical practice, which helped make the information feel more relatable and grounded in reality. Additionally, the author expands the conversation to include social factors such as colonialism, oppression, gender inequalities, and racism, all of which contribute to burnout in unique ways. This broader perspective adds depth to the discussion and encourages readers to think beyond individual coping mechanisms.
The final part of the book focuses on post-burnout growth. It summarizes the key points discussed throughout the book while offering valuable insights for navigating life after experiencing burnout. The author also provides a wealth of additional resources and support for further reading and professional help, ensuring that readers have the tools to continue their recovery journey.
Overall, I found this book to be clear, concise,
and incredibly valuable. It’s not just for those experiencing burnout but for anyone seeking to understand the phenomenon and support others who may be struggling. I highly recommend this book to anyone in leadership positions, healthcare workers, and anyone seeking practical guidance on preventing and recovering from burnout.
Thank you Times Reads for the review copy.