An HR manager writes in feeling burnt out after a recent divorce and a reduction in their team and resources. They are concerned that their employer and leadership team may not understand the gravity of their situation, but they are committed to having a heart-to-heart conversation to seek understanding and explore how they can be better supported.
A reader writes:
As an HR manager who has always found immense satisfaction in lending a helping hand, I have cherished my role for years. However, the past six months have brought a significant shift in my professional life, leaving me feeling burnt at the stake.
My once-robust team and resources have been slashed and burned, making me feel like a one-man band and, at times, inadequate. This has been compounded by the recent divorce, which has placed me under severe financial duress.
This perfect storm of professional and personal challenges has left me running on fumes, both mentally and physically. Despite my dedication, my employer and the leadership team have granted me only a few days’ respite to catch my breath.
While I understand that they cannot fully fathom my struggles, I am concerned that they may not grasp the gravity of my situation. I believe it is essential to engage in a heart-to-heart conversation with them, not only to seek understanding but also to explore how I can be better supported during this trying period of burnout. This discussion will be crucial in finding solutions that can help me regain my professional footing and personal equilibrium.
Dear HR Manager,
I hear you loud and clear. You are feeling burnt at the stake, and it’s understandable. You’ve been through a lot in the past six months, and it’s taking a toll on you.
I’m glad you’re thinking about having a heart-to-heart conversation with your employer and the leadership team. This is a crucial step in getting the support you need.
Here are a few things you can do to prepare for the conversation:
Be honest and open about how you’re feeling. Don’t sugarcoat things or try to downplay your struggles. Your employer and the leadership team need to understand the full extent of your burnout in order to help you.
Example: I’ve been feeling overwhelmed and stressed for the past few months, and I’m worried about my ability to continue working at this pace.
I’ve always been a dedicated employee, and I take pride in my work. However, the recent changes to my team and workload have been a lot to handle. I’m also dealing with a lot of stress in my personal life, which is making it even harder to cope.
I’m not sure what I need at this point, but I’m open to discussing any options that might help me get back on track. I’m willing to take on less work, take some time off, or seek professional help. I’m just hoping that we can find a solution that works for everyone.
Be specific about what you need. Don’t just say that you need help. Be clear about what kind of help you need, such as more time off, a reduced workload, or access to resources like counseling or therapy.
Example: I’m open to discussing any options that might help me, but here are a few things that I think would be most beneficial:
I would like to take a few weeks of unpaid leave to give myself some time to rest and recharge.
I would like to reduce my workload by 20%.
I would like to have access to counseling or therapy to help me cope with the stress.
I’m committed to my job and I want to continue being a valuable member of the team. I’m confident that we can find a solution that works for everyone.
Be willing to compromise. It’s unlikely that your employer and the leadership team will be able to give you everything you want. Be prepared to negotiate and compromise on some things.
I know it’s not easy to ask for help, but it’s important to do so. Burnout at work is a serious problem, and it’s only going to get worse if you don’t address it.
I wish you all the best in your conversation with your employer and the leadership team. I hope they are understanding and supportive, and that you are able to get the help you need.
Burnout is a tough challenge, but it’s one that you can overcome. By taking care of yourself and asking for help, you can get back on track and regain your professional and personal equilibrium.
Sincerely,
Jane