Burnout is more than a trendy term or a fleeting complaint – it’s a pervasive workplace challenge. According to a 2024 study by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM):

• 44% of U.S. employees feel burned out at work.
• 45% feel emotionally drained.
• 51% feel “used up” by the end of the day.

This isn’t just stress. The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome stemming from chronic workplace stress, characterized by exhaustion, cynicism, and reduced professional effectiveness.

Burnout in the Nonprofit Sector
The nonprofit world is especially vulnerable. A 2024 report by The Center for Effective Philanthropy revealed:

• 95% of nonprofit leaders are concerned about burnout.
• 50% are worried about their own burnout.
• Over 25% reported increased staff turnover compared to previous years.

Workforce shortages compound the issue, leaving remaining staff with unsustainable workloads. These trends underscore a stark reality: burnout is widespread, and its impact is undermining the wellbeing of nonprofit workers.

Recognize the Signs
Burnout can show up in many ways, often creeping in before we even realize it. According to The Mayo Clinic, common symptoms include physical and emotional exhaustion, feeling powerless or empty, and questioning the value of your work.

Take a moment to reflect and ask yourself:

• Do I feel disconnected from my work or colleagues?
• Am I struggling to focus or find satisfaction in my tasks?
• Have I become impatient, irritable, or overly critical?
• Am I relying on unhealthy habits to cope?
• Has my sleep pattern or overall health noticeably changed?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you may be experiencing burnout. It’s important to take these feelings seriously – reach out to a trusted friend, a healthcare provider, or a mental health professional for support.

Be the Leader Your Team Needs
Burnout often stems from organizational issues, making leadership critical in creating a healthier workplace. According to the 2024 Social Impact Staff Retention Project (SISR), nonprofit employees are more likely to stay in their roles when they have flexibility, supportive leadership, and adequate compensation. While salary may be out of your control, you can take meaningful steps to support your team:

• Reignite purpose. Help employees see how their work connects to the organization’s mission.
• Promote work-life balance. Set and respect boundaries to give your team time to recharge.
• Clarify expectations. Provide clear goals, regular feedback, and opportunities for growth.
• Foster trust and connection. Build a supportive environment where staff feel safe sharing concerns, and encourage meaningful relationships within the workplace.

By addressing burnout’s root causes and modeling healthy boundaries yourself, you can create a workplace where employees feel valued, supported, and inspired to do their best work.

The Path Forward
Burnout is real, but it doesn’t have to define your organization’s future. By recognizing the signs early, addressing root causes, and fostering a culture of balance, care, and connection, you can create a healthier, more sustainable work environment.

The work you do matters, and so do the people who make it happen. By prioritizing their well-being, you’re not only building a stronger team but also ensuring your mission thrives for the long haul. Together, we can turn the tide on burnout and create workplaces where passion and purpose flourish.