Burnout doesn’t happen overnight – our scientific research shows there are 5 stages people go through before they get to crisis point, marked by recognisable signs.
About Our Research
In the development of the AURA assessment model, we reviewed the scientific research and conducted interviews with psychologists, doctors and people with burnout experiences to understand how it manifested and what the warning signs are.
Interestingly, it emerged that whilst people experience symptoms to different degrees, there are 5 typical stages that people experience on the way to a full burnout crisis, marked by tell-tale signs.
The Burnout Journey
Stage 1 – Overdrive
You work harder to keep up, feeling the need to prove yourself. You may feel a constant sense of urgency and sense of impatience.
Stage 2 – Questioning
You start to struggle to cope, neglecting your self care. Performance declines, and self-doubt creeps in, making you feel ineffective.
Stage 3 – Detaching
You withdraw emotionally, avoiding dealing with issues or challenging situations. You feel a sense of apathy and lack of motivation. Negativity and cynicism grow, and lack empathy for others, easily irritated by them.
Stage 4 – Losing Control
Overwhelmed and anxious, you start making irrational decisions. Social withdrawal intensifies and you struggle to share how you’re feeling, lacking the emotional energy.
Stage 5 – Crisis
Complete physical, emotional and mental exhaustion. You feel stuck, hopeless, and disconnected, with strained relationships and a sense that nothing you do matters.
Want to know which stage you’re at?
Take your personal AURA assessment today at www.aura.works
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