Strategies for resilience in high pressure roles

In the high-pressure world of professional services, burnout has become an all-too-common phenomenon, affecting individuals across various industries. Recent investigations into top law firms have shed light on the detrimental impact of overwork on lawyers, particularly the younger generation. However, burnout extends beyond the legal profession, with statistics showing alarming rates of burnout among workers in general.

Understanding the problem
Burnout is not merely a buzzword but a significant concern affecting the wellbeing and productivity of individuals in the workplace. It manifests in various ways, including decreased job satisfaction, fatigue, and feelings of isolation. Moreover, overwork not only affects individuals' mental and physical health but also leads to negative business outcomes, contributing to absenteeism, resignations, and rising health insurance costs.

The impact on professionals
Those who work in demanding professions, such as Lawyers, face immense pressure to meet client demands and billable hour targets, often resulting in long working hours and extreme stress. The culture of overwork in large law firms, coupled with the expectation of perfection and instant responsiveness, can create a toxic environment that takes a toll on employees' wellbeing.

The need for change
Recognising the urgent need to address burnout, governments and organisations are taking steps to implement policies that promote work-life balance. The introduction of the 'right to disconnect' law in Australia, for instance, aims to protect employees from overwork by allowing them to refuse work-related communication outside of working hours. In the UK, there is not yet a specific right to disconnect, however there are some protections within existing laws. Health and safety legislation requires employers to take reasonably practicable steps to protect the health and safety of their employees, such as not routinely calling or emailing team members outside of normal working hours.

Building resilience
While legislative measures are crucial, building resilience among employees is equally important. Organisations can provide training and resources to help employees develop healthy coping mechanisms and navigate everyday challenges effectively. Programs like the Building Healthy Coping Skills course offer practical strategies for resilience, emphasising the importance of adaptability and problem-solving skills.

How Enmasse can help
As a leading provider of workplace wellbeing solutions, we offer comprehensive support to businesses seeking to address burnout and foster resilience among their employees. Through tailored programs and expert guidance, we help organisations create healthier work environments and improve employee engagement and retention. With a vast a range of courses designed to equip employees with the skills and strategies needed to thrive in high-stress environments. The Building Healthy Coping Skills course, mentioned earlier, is just one example of the programs we offer.
Other courses include:

• Stress management: This course focuses on identifying sources of stress and implementing effective stress-management techniques to promote overall well-being.
• Mindfulness and meditation: Participants learn mindfulness and meditation practices to reduce stress, enhance focus, and cultivate a sense of calm and clarity.
• Work-life balance: This course explores practical strategies for achieving a healthy work-life balance, including time management, boundary setting, and prioritisation.
• Resilience building: Participants develop resilience skills to navigate challenges, bounce back from setbacks, and thrive in the face of adversity.

Creating a culture that prioritises employee wellbeing requires a collective effort from employers, managers, and employees themselves. Implementing clear policies on work hours, fostering open communication, and providing support systems for those at risk of burnout are essential steps toward building a healthier and more sustainable workplace.

Addressing burnout and promoting resilience are critical imperatives for organisations across industries. By taking proactive measures to support employee wellbeing and cultivate a culture of balance and resilience, we can create healthier, more productive work environments where individuals can thrive.

References:
https://lsj.com.au/articles/curbing-lawyer-burnout/
https://theconversation.com/stuck-in-fight-or-flight-mode-5-ways-to-complete-the-stress-cycle-and-avoid-burnout-or-depression-218599
https://www.ft.com/content/59211933-5494-4b35-b3e5-a0a791b1fd18