In a time when the term ‘burnout’ is becoming part of our common vocabulary and reported cases are on the rise, it’s crucial to shift our focus towards its counterpart: vitality. The opposite of burnout, vitality represents a state of being filled with energy, life, and enthusiasm. Achieving a state of vitality allows us to flourish in our work, personal lives and daily interactions, providing stability and motivation and helping to maintain a good quality of life.
What is the definition of burnout?
Burnout is often discussed informally and its meaning varies depending on the context.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) classifies burnout as follows:
“Burnout is a syndrome conceptualised as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterised by three dimensions:
feelings of energy depletion or exhaustion;
increased mental distance from one’s job, feelings of negativism or cynicism related to one's job; and
reduced professional efficacy.”
Whilst the WHO states that burnout refers specifically to an occupational context (i.e., experiences at work), other organizations argue that burnout is not limited to people who are employed. According to Mental Health UK, burnout is “a state of physical and emotional exhaustion” that can occur when you experience long-term stress in your work or home life. Sources of long-term stress that can cause burnout can include studying, insecure employment or being out of work, financial worries, relationships, or responsibilities at home (such as caring for others).
What is the opposite of burnout?
The opposite of burnout is vitality. Whereas burnout is characterised by exhaustion, cynicism and reduced ability to function well at work or in other areas of responsibility , vitality is the experience of deep engagement, curiosity and evolution.
When someone is experiencing vitality, they typically feel energised, enthusiastic and capable of accomplishing their daily activities. Whilst burnout can be difficult to escape without taking proactive steps to address it, we should all strive for vitality as a state of positive mental well-being.
What is vitality?
Vitality refers to a state of high physical and mental energy, a feeling of strength, and a sense of enthusiasm for life. It is linked to your mental and physical workload at work, school or home. The more burned out, drained, or tired you feel the less vital you feel.
Vitality encompasses more than just physical health; it includes emotional stability, mental clarity, and a deep-seated sense of purpose.
How do you measure vitality?
Many people rely on self-assessment to measure vitality by checking in with their own energy levels, behaviour changes and stress indicators. It is always good to stay aware of your current state of mind and vitality levels, but it can be difficult to assess independently.
Tools and questionnaires such as the Subjective Vitality Scale can be employed to gauge an individual's subjective experience of energy and aliveness. The scale offers a vitality score against answers provided by the individual rating how true statements like “I have energy and spirit” are for them.
Mental health support and monitoring technology like thymia can help to provide an objective, accurate and quantifiable mental health assessment for vitality levels. Our wellness software analyses an individual’s voice and monitors subtle emotional cues and cognitive patterns to identify early signs of burnout, stress, anxiety and depression.
How do you increase vitality?
Your vitality levels are responsive to changes in your working routine, diet, activity levels and personal life. While each person is different and will have varied responses to these factors, there are a few straightforward things anyone can employ to increase vitality:
Exercise regularly: Choose an activity you enjoy such as swimming, cycling, yoga or a short walk to boost endorphins.
Eat well: Incorporate a diverse and nutritious diet to fuel your body and your brain.
Get enough sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours of good quality sleep per night for optimum function.
Manage your stress: Identify any triggers of burnout or stress and think of proactive ways to reduce their impact. This might mean reassigning or delegating tasks at work, speaking to HR or creating a project plan ahead to avoid getting overwhelmed.
Engage in social activities: Make time to prioritise friends, family and loved ones by incorporating positive social interactions into your weekly routine.
Implementing these strategies can contribute to an increase in vitality, promoting an energetic, balanced, and fulfilling life. It's important to remember that changes don't happen overnight, and consistency is key to seeing improvements in vitality.
Can you reverse burnout?
Yes, it’s possible to reverse burnout. Although it may seem daunting, taking proactive steps to maintain balance in your life and address the root causes of your burnout can lead to a renewed sense of energy and purpose.
It is important to understand that burnout is a temporary state that comes about depending on particular circumstances or events. By changing these circumstances and making adjustments to your working routine, sleeping schedule, eating habits and physical health you are likely to feel the effects gradually but surely. With patience and consistent effort, reversing burnout is entirely possible, leading to greater mental well-being and vitality.