By Ntombi Mazibuko, Head of SHERQ: SPM
Burnout isn’t always loud. Sometimes it creeps in quietly, eroding energy, focus, and morale before anyone notices. Leaders who spot the early signs can act fast—protecting both their team and their business. Here’s what to look for:
- Chronic Exhaustion
It’s more than a long week. Team members consistently appear drained, struggle to complete even simple tasks, and complain of fatigue that doesn’t resolve over weekends or holidays.
- Drop in Productivity
Deadlines slip, output decreases, and quality dips. If efficiency is falling despite the same workload, burnout may be quietly undermining performance.
- Increased Cynicism or Negativity
A once-positive team starts expressing frustration, sarcasm, or outright negativity toward projects, leadership, or colleagues. Disengagement often manifests as persistent complaints.
- Emotional Detachment
Team members may seem distant or indifferent, offering minimal input in discussions and avoiding collaboration. This emotional withdrawal is a defence mechanism against chronic stress.
- Frequent Illness or Complaints About Health
Burnout weakens the immune system. Headaches, colds, digestive issues, or repeated sick days can indicate stress that’s affecting physical wellbeing.
- Difficulty Concentrating
Tasks that once required little effort suddenly feel overwhelming. Mistakes creep in, and focus becomes inconsistent—a hallmark of mental fatigue.
- Loss of Enthusiasm
Passion and engagement wane. If team members stop volunteering for new challenges, skip meetings, or show little excitement for achievements, energy is running low.
- Increased Irritability
Burnout often surfaces in mood swings and impatience. Small frustrations trigger disproportionate reactions, affecting relationships and team cohesion.
- Avoidance Behaviour
Procrastination, frequent breaks, or even absenteeism can indicate a team trying to cope with stress by avoiding the source.
- Lack of Initiative
When creativity, problem-solving, and innovation dry up, it signals a team running on empty. They’re focused on surviving the day rather than thriving in it.
What to do: Recognising burnout is the first step. Open dialogue, workload assessment, and genuine support are critical. Sometimes, the smartest move a leader can make is to step back, listen, and act before it becomes a crisis.