The Connection Between Seasonal Changes and Burnout: Understanding the Link
Our lives are always shifting, just like the seasons outside. The length of daylight, the average temperature, and other aspects of our environment are all subject to change as the seasons go. These shifts not only have an influence on our disposition and the patterns we follow in our everyday lives, but they also have the potential to have a substantial impact on our levels of stress and our propensity to experience burnout. In this piece, we investigate the link between the changing of the seasons and feelings of burnout by calling on the expertise of Michael D. Levitt, who serves as the Chief Burnout Officer for the Breakfast Leadership Network.
Both Seasonal Affective Disorder and Burnout are Present.
Seasonal affective disorder (also known as SAD) is a form of sadness that manifests itself at certain periods of the year, most commonly during the winter months. This condition is one of the clearest illustrations of how shifts in the seasons may have an effect on burnout. According to Levitt, "Seasonal Affective Disorder is a key contributing factor to burnout due to the fact that it can magnify existing stress and produce new stressors, leading to an increased risk of burnout."
During the winter months, there is less sunshine available, and the days are also shorter. This can cause levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which helps to regulate mood, to drop. This can add to emotions of depression, tiredness, and hopelessness, all of which can make burnout even worse. In addition, the colder weather and fewer alternatives for activities that can be done outside might make it more difficult to participate in activities that are intended to relieve stress.
The passage from colder months into warmer ones
The passage from winter to spring, with its gradually lengthening days and gradually increasing high temperatures, has the potential to have a salutary effect on burnout. According to Levitt's explanation, "the extra daylight and warmer weather frequently enhance mood and energy levels, making it easier to engage in activities that might help reduce burnout." During the spring months, people often find it easier to maintain a healthy work-life balance and manage stress since there are more chances for activities that can be done outside, for physical exercise, and for socializing.
Yet, this change may also come with certain unintended consequences. Levitt writes, "People may have increased feelings of pressure to become more productive and make the most of their newly found energy when the weather begins to improve. This can lead to overcommitting oneself and feeling overwhelmed, both of which increase the likelihood of experiencing burnout." It is crucial to establish a balance between making the most of the changing seasons and not piling on too many unachievable expectations for oneself. Finding this balance might be difficult.
The transformation from springtime into summertime
The beginning of summer often brings with it the promise of upcoming holidays, more possibilities for relaxation, and days that are longer in length. This can result in a reduction in stress and burnout, but it can also lead to the creation of new issues. Levitt warns that "the anticipation of vacations can lead to a frantic push to complete work before time off, and the return from vacation can be accompanied by a heavy workload," both of which can contribute to burnout. "The anticipation of vacations can lead to a frantic push to complete work before time off," says Levitt.
In addition, the high temperatures of summer can have a severe effect on the quality of one's sleep, leaving individuals feeling more weary and less able to cope with the stress of their daily lives. Levitt suggests making sleep and caring for oneself a top priority during this time period in order to reduce the likelihood of experiencing burnout. "It is crucial to be hydrated, have a constant sleep schedule, and ensure that you have a cool, comfortable sleep environment," he suggests. "It is also important to ensure that you have a consistent sleep environment."
The Approach of the Fall Season
The days start to get shorter, and the temperatures start to drop, marking the beginning of autumn as a period of change. During the slower and more laid-back pace of summer, many individuals look forward to getting back into their normal routine around this time of year. While this might provide a person with a sense of security, it also has the potential to lead to burnout.
Levitt adds, "The disruption of one's normal routine, when combined with the growing pressures of their professional and personal lives, can lead to greater levels of stress. In order to avoid burnout at this period, it is essential to keep clear boundaries between one's personal life and one's professional life."
Also, the shorter amount of daylight hours can contribute to a reduction in mood and energy levels for certain people, which can make it more difficult to concentrate and get things done.
