If You Are Feeling Burned Out At Work, You Aren’t Alone!
Across the U.S., more than half of the workforce, 55%, is running on fumes, according to new research. And if you’ve been feeling the strain as the year winds down, you’re in good company. The holiday season may look festive on the outside, but for many professionals, especially those juggling work, family, aging parents, and finances, November and December can feel like a pressure cooker.
Organizations are seeing the consequences, too. Burnout isn’t just about feeling stressed; it’s showing up in performance, innovation, and customer experience. Workers reported that burnout:
- 72% diminishes their efficiency
- 71% hurts their overall job performance
- 65% weakens their ability to serve customers
- 64% reduces their ability to innovate
- 56% impacts their attendance
And perhaps most concerning for employers: burned-out employees are nearly three times more likely to say they plan to leave in the coming year.
While burnout is highest among younger workers, Gen X, sitting squarely in mid-career, isn’t far behind at 53%. Remote and hybrid workers report even higher burnout levels, showing that flexibility alone isn’t the fix.
Yet even with such widespread strain, many people keep their struggles quiet. Only 42% of burned-out workers tell their manager, and almost half of those who do say nothing changes.
So if the weight feels heavier this season, know this: what you’re experiencing is real, common, and not a personal failure. It’s a sign, one worth listening to, and one countless others are facing right alongside you.
Set your boundaries, work/life balance, and be open about your concerns with your manager and team.
Doug O’Brien
