What is burnout characterized by?

Burnout is primarily characterized by a loss of productivity and heightened feelings of frustration. It occurs when an individual experiences prolonged and excessive stress, leading to emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion. This state can result in individuals feeling overwhelmed, detached, and unmotivated, significantly diminishing their ability to perform effectively at work.

In contrast, increased productivity and enthusiasm, a boost in employee engagement, and effective stress management describe positive states that are not associated with burnout. Rather, they reflect healthy workplace conditions and personal well-being, which stand in stark contrast to the fatigue and negativity typical of burnout. It's this deterioration in performance and rising frustration that defines the essence of burnout, making the correct understanding of the condition essential for effective human resource management and supporting employee well-being.