Burnout or Boreout? How to Tell the Difference

Understanding Boreout: A Growing Workplace Challenge

You're likely familiar with burnout, the state of exhaustion caused by persistent stress and demanding work. However, there's another mental health issue gaining attention in the workplace: boreout. While less well-known, experts suggest it's becoming increasingly common. Let's explore what boreout is, how it differs from burnout, and strategies to address it.

What Is Boreout?

Boreout refers to a condition where an employee experiences chronic boredom, lack of stimulation, and a sense of disconnection from their work. This occurs when daily tasks are unchallenging, unmeaningful, or repetitive. Employees may feel like they're just going through the motions, showing up but mentally checking out.

According to Jasmine Escalera, a career expert at MyPerfectResume, boreout often stems from a lack of growth opportunities. She notes that many employees feel detached from their jobs, which can lead to feelings of unfulfillment. Dr. Courtney DeAngelis, a psychologist, adds that while it's normal to have moments of disengagement, boreout describes a more consistent feeling of dissatisfaction.

Sonnet Daymont, a licensed marriage and family therapist, emphasizes the importance of purpose in work. She believes that contributing to the world and personal growth are key factors in feeling engaged and satisfied.

Why Is Boreout on the Rise?

Several factors contribute to the increasing prevalence of boreout. Emily Worden, a career coach, points out that people are staying in jobs longer due to a competitive job market. Additionally, job descriptions often don't match actual responsibilities, leading to frustration and resentment among employees.

Elizabeth Pearson, an executive career coach, suggests that a general sense of apathy in the current climate plays a role. People may feel powerless to change external circumstances, leading them to tune out aspects of their lives, including work. This can result in a state of quiet apathy, where individuals wait for conditions to improve without taking action.

Keith Spencer, a career expert, warns that ignoring the signs of boreout can have lasting emotional consequences. It's not just a temporary slump but a serious issue that can affect happiness and well-being.

Boreout vs. Burnout: Key Differences

While both boreout and burnout lead to dissatisfaction, they have different causes. Burnout results from overwork and high-pressure environments, whereas boreout stems from a lack of challenge, purpose, or growth.

Worden explains that burnout feels like drowning in work, while boreout feels like being stuck in place with nothing meaningful to do. Both can lead to similar symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and depression, but the underlying causes differ.

Escalera highlights that boreout can sometimes precede burnout if left unaddressed. The initial detachment and disengagement can build up over time, eventually leading to more severe burnout symptoms.

Strategies to Address Boreout

Recognizing the early signs of boreout is crucial. Escalera advises employees to reflect on their work, purpose, and career goals. Taking action at this stage can help realign work with personal values and needs.

Karishma Patel Buford, chief people officer at Spring Health, recommends focusing on well-being and reconnecting with what initially motivated you in your role. Discussing new challenges with managers and seeking meaningful tasks can help reignite passion for work.

Daymont suggests learning assertiveness and effective communication skills to express the need for more meaningful work. If that's not possible, some employees take on innovative projects or start side businesses to regain motivation.

DeAngelis encourages building meaningful connections at work, as humans are wired for connection. Cultivating relationships can improve job satisfaction. Outside of work, taking online courses, starting a side hustle, or developing a passion skill can also help rekindle interest.

Spencer reminds us that feeling bored at work is not a personal failure but a signal that change is needed. Exploring new job opportunities or even considering a career pivot can lead to more fulfilling work.

Conclusion

Boreout is a growing concern in the modern workplace, highlighting the need for balance between engagement and purpose. Recognizing its signs and taking proactive steps can prevent it from escalating into burnout. Whether through communication, self-improvement, or seeking new opportunities, addressing boreout is essential for long-term job satisfaction and well-being.