Gen Z’s approach to work has faced its fair share of criticism and praise. From taking time off to avoiding looking at emails after hours, Gen Z is known for setting firmer boundaries. There’s a stark reality behind what’s driving their habits—many young employees are struggling with burnout. Despite being newer to the world of work, recent data shows that Gen Zers are more likely to report a higher frequency of burnout-related symptoms than their older co-workers. For instance, a significant percentage of young accountants have been diagnosed with or have self-identified with depression. Understanding this problem and taking actionable steps is vital for supporting this generation in the workplace.
Promote a Balanced Lifestyle
Managing burnout isn’t about doing it all; it’s about finding what works best for you. For the burnt-out Gen Z, physical activity is just one suggestion that can help manage burnout symptoms. This doesn’t need to involve intense workouts—activities like taking a short walk, practicing yoga, or even taking a brief stretch break during the workday can make a difference. Small lifestyle changes can create a balanced routine that alleviates stress. Additionally, maintaining a healthy diet and ensuring adequate sleep can also play a crucial role in managing burnout. Such habits not only improve physical health but also boost mental resilience.
Young professionals are entering the workforce amid various pressures, including financial instability and the normalization of hustle culture. These stressors can significantly impact their ability to unwind. Encouraging Gen Z to explore mindfulness practices or hobbies that they enjoy can act as an effective counterbalance to workplace stress. Whether it’s spending time with family, indulging in a creative activity, or simply enjoying some quiet time, these practices can help in reducing the symptoms of burnout. Employers should promote such activities to ensure their workforce remains healthy and productive.
Encourage Taking Time Off
Our own research has shown that 42% of accountants reported that taking time off helped them manage burnout symptoms. Whether through vacation days or dedicating a few days for a mental recharge, taking breaks allows for recovery from workplace demands. Encouraging employees to take their full quota of holiday days and even some impromptu days off can refresh their mind and body, making them more effective in their work. This culture of taking breaks must be supported from the top down, with leadership setting the example.
Another way to support taking time off is by designing company policies that actively encourage it. Flexible holiday policies, mental health days, and no-questions-asked personal days can significantly impact an employee’s comfort level in taking necessary time off. Additionally, fostering an understanding environment where employees feel they can take time off without fear of penalty or judgment is crucial. Creating a sustainable work culture where time off is normalized and protected ensures long-term well-being and productivity.
Lower Workload or Hours
Employers and businesses have a role to play in preventing burnout, along with supporting employees who are experiencing it. Line managers play a crucial role in supporting the workforce. Open conversations about overwhelming workloads can result in collaborative solutions, such as adjusted schedules or redistributed responsibilities, which make workloads more manageable. For example, setting realistic deadlines, offering help, and ensuring no one is overburdened can make a significant difference in reducing stress.
Periodic reviews to analyze workload distribution and employee stress levels can be highly beneficial. Employers should seek feedback regularly and make necessary adjustments to workloads to prevent chronic strain. Incorporating flexible working hours can also mitigate burnout. Allowing for part-time work, remote working options, or even ‘core working hours’ can help employees manage their time more effectively, subsequently reducing stress. By addressing workload issues directly, businesses can create a more sustainable working environment for their employees.
Foster a Supportive Culture
Burnout often leads to feelings of isolation. Connecting with trusted colleagues or peers can counteract this. Sharing concerns, such as heavy workloads or student loan debts, and receiving support creates a sense of understanding and camaraderie. This mutual support fosters emotional resilience, which is needed to manage stress and combat exhaustion. Employers should facilitate open communication channels where employees feel comfortable expressing concerns without fear of retribution.
Creating an inclusive and supportive workplace culture goes beyond merely addressing workloads. Employers can establish support groups or peer networks where employees can share their experiences and solutions. This culture of support should extend to management as well; leaders should be trained in recognizing signs of burnout and providing or directing employees to the necessary resources. Regular team-building activities can also promote a sense of belonging and interdependence, crucial for maintaining a supportive work culture.
Seek Further Assistance
Gen Z’s approach to work has drawn both criticism and praise. This generation is known for setting firmer boundaries, whether it’s taking time off or avoiding emails after work hours. The reality behind these habits reveals that many young employees are grappling with burnout. Despite being relatively new to the workforce, recent studies indicate that Gen Z workers report burnout symptoms more frequently than their older counterparts. For example, many young accountants are diagnosed with, or have self-identified as having, depression. This underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the issues this generation faces. Supporting Gen Z in the workplace requires not only acknowledging their need for boundaries but also recognizing the mental health challenges they encounter. Offering mental health resources, developing supportive work environments, and promoting work-life balance can help mitigate these problems. Taking these actionable steps is crucial for nurturing a resilient and productive workforce for the future.