In the frenzied pace of startups and the IT world, where ambitions are off the charts and every minute counts, it's easy to lose sight of one of the most insidious "enemies" — professional burnout. It's not just fatigue after a long day, but a deep, exhausting state that slowly drains our strength. According to various studies, about 40% of people worldwide are experiencing burnout now or have experienced it in the past. This is a serious reason to stop and think, because the global picture highlights the urgency of the problem for everyone who is building their career.

Let's figure out what kind of beast it is. Burnout is not laziness or weakness of character. It's a state of chronic exhaustion where the brain and body just scream "Enough is enough!" Constant stress, whether at work, school, or even in personal relationships, gradually accumulates and leads to complete devastation.

How to recognize burnout?

• Motivation is melting before our eyes. What used to inspire seems routine now.
• Emotions are exhausted. Irritation becomes the norm, and joy becomes a rare guest.
• Interest in life is fading. Hobbies are not a joy, meetings with friends seem like a burden.
• I want to hide from everyone. Social contacts are exhausting, and there is a desire to distance oneself.
• Insecurity gnaws at you from the inside out. It seems that you can't do anything else, and your achievements are an accident.

The causes of burnout are usually complex and multifaceted. They can be divided into three main groups:

1) Our environment:

• A "toxic" corporate culture: where there is no support, fierce competition or unhealthy hierarchy reigns.
• The "cult of eternal employment": when being constantly at work means being "successful", and rest is considered a luxury.
• Constant availability: the smartphone has become an extension of the hand, and work chats do not stop even at night.

2) Personal factors:

• The imbalance of life: when work takes up almost all the time, and there is no energy left for yourself, your hobbies and loved ones.
• The "excellent student syndrome" and excessive demands on oneself: the desire to always be perfect quickly exhausts.

3) Professional traps:

• Loss of meaning: when you stop understanding why and for what you work, you lose touch with your professional identity.
• Anxiety about the future: constant thoughts of uncertainty, fear of change, and a sense of loss of control.

The first and most important thing is to recognize the problem and understand where the "wind is blowing from." Only then can we begin to act.

If the reason is in the work environment, sometimes the best way out is to change the environment. A new company with the right culture or even a new career strategy can be a breath of fresh air. Also, learn to build personal boundaries: this is your shield from overworking.

When it comes to personal factors, it's time to figure out where the energy is going and start replenishing it. There is no magic pill here, but there are proven recipes.: healthy sleep, delicious and healthy food, exercise, favorite hobbies and, of course, communication with those who are dear.

If you feel a loss of professional identity, remember your strengths, past victories, your values, and true goals. A career consultant can be your reliable guide in this search.

Sometimes burnout goes too far, and it becomes impossible to cope alone. If you feel deep apathy, constantly suffer from insomnia, tremor or unexplained excessive tearfulness – do not postpone a visit to a neurologist or psychotherapist. Seeking professional help is not a weakness, but a wise step towards recovery.

In conclusion, I would like to note that burnout is a serious challenge, but it is not a verdict. Awareness of the problem, an in-depth analysis of the causes, and active steps to change will help bring back energy and joy to both work and life.