Are Your Circuits Overloaded?

Did you know that we are exposed to almost 16 thousand bits of information each day? This includes messages from other people, the computer, television, radio, and from what we read, study, or even pass by on our way to work, school, errands, etc. Zap! Yikes! Many of these messages we have little to no control over, but, collectively, they can contribute to big time burnout or meltdown…circuit overload!

We all know the cost to family life and organizations can be staggering!
Many of today’s organizations have workplace wellness programs and are beginning to tune in and better understand how “survivor syndrome” is affecting their cultures and bottom line results. The issues that arise from circuit overload - burnout, overload, and meltdown – like poor morale, disengagement, disloyalty, poor productivity – are real and can be managed! First and foremost, we need to be aware of the changes in our own attitude and behavior and then practice self-management. If we are people managers, before we can help our employees, we need to be in “power surge” mode ourselves.

So, turn up your dimmer switch! Do you know the warning signs of burnout, overload and meltdown?
 Feeling moody – a prevailing sadness and gloomy feeling.
 Decision making is difficult – seems impossible to make big life changes; even small decisions are harder than ever to make.
 Irritable is your middle name – low-grade anger and resentment or stress makes you prone to snapping and sniping at others over petty things.
 Relax – not! Your body feels tense, and as much as you try, you can’t seem to relax. Going to sleep is difficult and you probably wake up and worry in the wee hours.
 On-going colds or other maladies – Your body is run-down and you tend to pick up colds or other infections like a magnet.
 Low power or no power – no matter how much you rest, you feel exhausted, depleted, and energy-sapped.
 Eating habits change – overeating or loss of appetite – either is a sign of trouble.

If you or your employee(s) are experiencing even just two or three of these warning signs, getting back on track is possible with some positive action that builds healthy circuits. If more than three are apparent, please seek assistance…sooner than later…before the circuits blow!

Now more than ever, managers and employees need to stay “connected” in a positive way, and I don’t mean “T2T” - always using technology! Focusing on the ever-important “P2P” (people-to-people) relationships – will build trust, understanding, and loyalty – all of which lead to happier people/employees, a more productive work (and home) environment, and a healthier bottom line.

What are you doing to build and stabilize healthy circuits and bring more positive energy to your life and to your workplace?