Dear Thoughtful Leader: Overcoming burnout in middle management
Middle manager feels stuck and burnt out by pressure from employees and upper management. Seeks practical coping strategies for thriving amid pressure and expectations.
We’re shaking things up here at ManageBetter with a brand new feature in our newsletter - "Dear Thoughtful Leader." Picture it as a modern "Dear Abby" for leaders, creating a space to share challenges, learn from peers, and gain insights on tricky management situations. This week, we're addressing the pervasive issue of manager burnout. Read on for advice from the Thoughtful Leader about navigating this widespread challenge.
Keep leading thoughtfully,
Team ManageBetter
Dear Thoughtful Leader,
I’m a middle manager who feels constantly burnt out and overwhelmed by the expectations of both upper management and my direct reports. Despite my years of experience and education, I feel like I'm not making a difference. My position is making me depressed and unsuccessful. I even question if management is the right career for me as I’ve lost the motivation to continue advancing.
Have you heard from others in similar situations, and do you have any advice on how to cope with this pressure?
Sincerely,
Constantly Burnt Out
Dear Constantly Burnt Out,
You are not alone in feeling burnt out and overwhelmed in your position. Burnout is a widespread issue among middle managers, and it's crucial to address the reasons behind it, the feelings about advancement, and the coping strategies to navigate this challenging career phase.
According to psychology and research experts Christina Maslach, Susan E. Jackson, and Michael Leiter, burnout often stems from six main causes:
Unsustainable workload
Perceived lack of control
Insufficient rewards for effort
Lack of a supportive community
Lack of fairness
Mismatched values and skills
Regarding advancement, it's not uncommon for middle managers to lose interest in climbing the corporate ladder. Some may feel that they've hit a glass ceiling and are content with their current position, while others may be unsure about what to do if a promotion is on the table. This uncertainty can contribute to the overall stress and dissatisfaction experienced in middle management.
In a recent survey conducted by Harvard Business Review, which gathered feedback from over 1,500 respondents in 46 countries, it was revealed that burnout is a global problem. A staggering 89% of respondents said their work life was getting worse, and 85% reported a decline in their well-being. This data highlights the importance of addressing the issue of burnout in middle management.
Let’s explore some practical coping strategies to help you effectively handle pressure and expectations as a middle manager.
Establish a structured routine to balance work and personal life: Allocate specific hours for work tasks, self-care, and personal interests. Prioritize activities like exercise, hobbies, or spending time with family and friends to recharge and prevent burnout. Regularly review and adjust your routine to ensure it remains effective.
Set clear expectations and boundaries with your team and upper management: Communicate your workload limitations and prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines. Learn to push back when unrealistic expectations arise, and diplomatically express your concerns to upper management. Be aware that C-suite executives might not fully understand the challenges middle managers face, which can widen the gap between top and bottom. Building open communication channels with upper management can bridge this gap and promote a mutual understanding that makes your job less stressful.
Foster a supportive team environment and actively advocate for your employees: Regularly engage with your team through check-ins, meetings, or informal conversations. Encourage feedback, address their concerns, and recognize their achievements. Actively advocate for your team's needs, resources, and professional development, which will create a positive work atmosphere and enhance your fulfillment in your role.
Consider alternative career paths or opportunities for growth: In some cases, experiencing a significant career change or sometimes even being laid off can provide valuable perspective and opportunities for personal growth. One middle manager shared their experience of being laid off after facing burnout and subsequently starting a new business. This change allowed them to feel less stressed and gain insights that will enable them to advocate better for themselves in future roles. Be open to new opportunities, as they can lead to personal and professional growth, and ultimately help you find a more fulfilling career path.
Remember, your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as your professional success. Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, or even professional counseling if you continue to struggle with these feelings of burnout and being overwhelmed.
Wishing you the best on your journey to finding balance and fulfillment in your career.
Sincerely,
The Thoughtful Leader
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