7 career habits of people who grow without burning out

There’s a sweet spot between career growth and burnout. It’s a place where you’re scaling new heights, but not at the cost of your sanity.

Growing in your career doesn’t mean you have to face inevitable exhaustion. The most successful people have mastered certain habits that aid their growth while preventing burnout.

So buckle up and join me as we explore these 7 career habits of people who grow without burning out. It’s time to rewrite the narrative and show that it’s possible to thrive in your career without burning the candle at both ends.

1) Embrace technology, but don’t let it control you

We live in a digital world. Technology is constantly at our fingertips, and it’s a powerful tool for boosting productivity and efficiency.

But here’s the kicker: sometimes, it can be a double-edged sword. Yes, technology can make things faster and easier, but it can also lead to burnout if not managed effectively.

Those who grow without burning out understand this delicate balance. They use technology to their advantage but are careful not to let it control their lives. They know when to switch off their devices, disconnect from the digital world, and invest time in other crucial aspects of life.

Remember this- the most successful people are not those who are always ‘on’. Instead, they’re the ones who know when to be ‘on’ and when to be ‘off’. Mastering this balance can help you avoid burnout while still progressing in your career.

This habit is not about shunning technology but about using it mindfully and effectively, with an understanding of its potential pitfalls.

It’s about embracing the digital world while still remembering to live in the real world.

2) Prioritize work-life balance

Here’s something I’ve learned from personal experience: Work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a necessity.

In the early stages of my career, I was all about the hustle. I worked long hours, rarely took time off, and was always available for clients. Initially, it seemed like I was making great strides in my career.

But over time, I started feeling drained. My productivity suffered, and my enthusiasm for work waned. It was clear—I was on the path to burnout.

That’s when I realized the importance of work-life balance. I started setting boundaries and ensuring that I took time out for relaxation and recreation. I began to schedule ‘me’ time into my calendar, just like any other important meeting.

Surprisingly, this didn’t hinder my career growth; instead, it enhanced it. I was more productive during work hours because I was well-rested and rejuvenated. My creativity spiked, and my decision-making improved.

So from my own journey, I can tell you this: Prioritizing work-life balance is a key habit of those who grow without burning out.

It’s not about working less—it’s about working smart. And sometimes, working smart means knowing when to step back and recharge your batteries.

3) Regularly engage in learning

Imagine going through a year without learning anything new. Sounds dreadful, right?

Yet, many of us unintentionally fall into this trap in our careers. We become so focused on getting the job done that we forget to invest time in learning and development. But here’s the thing – those who grow without burning out understand the importance of continuous learning.

According to a LinkedIn Learning report, 94% of employees would stay at a company longer if it invested in their learning and development. This isn’t just about employee retention, though. It’s about personal growth and avoiding stagnation.

Engaging in regular learning keeps you motivated, mentally sharp, and ready for new challenges. It keeps your career dynamic and exciting, preventing the burnout that can come from repetition and monotony.

Whether it’s taking an online course, reading a relevant book, or attending a seminar, make learning a regular part of your career journey.

It doesn’t just fuel your professional growth—it also helps keep burnout at bay.

4) Practice mindfulness

In the hustle and bustle of the business world, it’s easy to lose sight of the present moment. We’re often so caught up in our to-do lists, our goals, and our worries about the future that we forget to truly live in the here and now.

Mindfulness is the practice of staying present and fully engaged with what we’re doing at the moment. It’s about not allowing past regrets or future anxieties to distract us from our current task or moment.

Those who grow without burning out often incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine. It helps them stay focused, reduces stress, and enhances their overall wellbeing.

Whether it’s starting your day with a few minutes of deep breathing, taking mindful breaks during your workday, or practicing mindfulness meditation – these little practices can make a big difference.

A calm mind is a productive mind. And who knows, you might just find that mindfulness not only helps you avoid burnout but also makes your career journey more enjoyable and fulfilling.

5) Seek supportive relationships

I’ve faced my fair share of challenges in my career. There were times when I felt overwhelmed, doubted my abilities, and questioned my career choices. But one thing helped me navigate those rough waters – the support of those around me.

Supportive relationships – be it with colleagues, mentors, or loved ones – can be a lifeline when workload and stress levels are high. Having someone who understands your struggles, appreciates your efforts, and encourages your growth can make a big difference.

In my own experience, I’ve found that fostering these supportive relationships gives me the strength to confront challenges head-on. A kind word or a listening ear can often be the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling empowered.

So don’t underestimate the power of supportive relationships. They can help you grow in your career without feeling isolated or burnt out.

Remember, we’re social creatures at heart, and we thrive when we’re connected with others.

6) Set realistic goals

We often hear about the importance of setting goals in our careers. And yes, goals give us direction, keep us motivated, and measure our progress. But it’s equally important to ensure that these goals are realistic.

People who grow without burning out know the importance of setting achievable, realistic goals. They understand that setting overly ambitious goals can lead to stress, disappointment, and ultimately, burnout.

Realistic goals are not about aiming low. Instead, they’re about understanding your capabilities and aligning your aspirations accordingly. They strike a balance between challenging you enough to keep you motivated but not so much that they become overwhelming.

Take the time to reflect on your career goals. Are they pushing you towards growth or pushing you towards burnout?

It’s not about how quickly you reach your destination but about enjoying the journey along the way.

7) Listen to your body and mind

Above all, the most crucial habit of people who grow without burning out is that they listen to their body and mind. They’re in tune with their mental and physical signals and take them seriously.

Feeling constantly drained, losing enthusiasm for work, or experiencing physical discomfort are not just minor inconveniences. They’re signs that you might be on the path to burnout.

So pay attention to these signals. Take the time to rest when you need it, seek help when you’re overwhelmed, and prioritize self-care.

Your health and well-being are not obstacles to your career growth—they’re the very foundation of it.

Final thought: It’s about the journey

Let’s take a moment to reflect on a quote from the famed philosopher Lao Tzu, “Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.”

This timeless wisdom holds true in our career journeys. Growth doesn’t have to be a race against time or a battle against burnout. Instead, it can be a balanced journey of exploration and development.

The seven habits we’ve discussed aren’t just strategies to avoid burnout. They’re ways to enrich your career journey and enhance your overall life quality.

From embracing technology judiciously, prioritizing work-life balance, engaging in continuous learning, practicing mindfulness, fostering supportive relationships, setting realistic goals, to listening to your body and mind – each habit is a stepping stone towards growth without burning out.

So, take a moment to reflect on these habits. Which ones do you already practice? Which ones could you incorporate into your career journey?

Remember, it’s never too late to start making positive changes. After all, it’s not just about reaching the peak—it’s about enjoying the climb.