Can EFT help burnout?
Burnout is a psychological and physical condition that results from chronic workplace stress. It can manifest as a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion and often occurs when individuals consistently face excessive demands, tight deadlines, and high-pressure environments without sufficient opportunities for recovery or support. Coming from the creative industry, I’ve seen and experienced many of the common symptoms, especially in a freelance environment.
How does burnout show up?
Emotional exhaustion: feeling drained, lacking energy for tasks
Reduced creativity and inspiration: Lack of fresh ideas, minimal if any problem-solving, always looking to the negative
Increased irritability: Stress leads to frustration, and negativity at work
Decreased motivation: Loss of interest, joy, lowering job satisfaction
Physical symptoms: Headaches, sleep issues, fatigue, appetite changes, worsening exhaustion
Reduced productivity: Slower work, lower quality due to mental strain
Cynicism and detachment: negativity, disengagement from work and colleagues.
What external factors contribute to burnout?
Work-related stress //
Excessive workload - having too much work or consistently facing tight deadlines can lead to overwhelming stress
Feeling a lack of autonomy or control over one's work can contribute to feelings of helplessness and frustration
Unclear job expectations - if employees are unsure about their roles, responsibilities, or expectations, it can lead to confusion and stress
Not receiving adequate acknowledgement or appreciation for one's efforts can erode motivation and contribute to burnout
Inadequate support from supervisors or a lack of effective leadership can contribute to a negative work environment.
Lack of work-life balance //
Long working hours: An expectation or culture of working long hours without sufficient breaks can disrupt work-life balance
Inability to disconnect: Modern technology has made it challenging for individuals to fully disconnect from work, leading to a constant feeling of being "on call."
Inflexible work arrangements: Limited flexibility in work hours or remote work options may make it difficult for individuals to manage personal responsibilities
Personal factors: Individuals with perfectionistic tendencies may set unrealistically high standards for themselves, leading to chronic dissatisfaction and stress
Lack of coping mechanisms: Inability to cope with stress, low resilience or lack of effective coping mechanisms
Personality traits: Such as being highly conscientious or overly self-sacrificing
Life events: Personal challenges such as health issues, financial problems, or family crises
Organisational factors: A toxic or unsupportive work culture can contribute significantly to burnout
Inadequate resources: Including staff, equipment, or training
How can EFT help burnout?
The organisation you work for can do a plethora of things - but that is on them. What I’m focused on is YOU. So that no matter where you work - employed, freelance, or business owner - you can create healthy boundaries.
Using Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT) //
We will gently and safely dismantle the deep-rooted historical patterns that may add to your suffering. Patterns such as -
People-pleasing
Seeking validation through productivity
Perfectionism
Struggling to establish boundaries by saying no
The fear of disappointing others
Willingness to self-sacrifice for the sake of others
Following our work together - you will find it easier to have greater resilience, feel empowered to say no and find joy again in your line of work. You will also learn tapping tools to use on yourself in any future stressful situation.
Client testimonial // Helping a client back to work after a year off due to burnout.
“After our sessions I felt empowered and safe, and ready to go back to work. I felt confident that I would be able to set AND maintain healthy boundaries and ask for help and support if I needed it. Some time has passed now and I feel like a different person at work: I have been able to take good care of myself while also dedicating myself to my work with the passion and enthusiasm that I had in earlier years. And I have no problem saying no or asking for support. I couldn't be more grateful!”
Client: MB
Further reading on how EFT has helped burnout:
Mental Health Academy: Case Study: Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) for Burnout