Burnout: When Motivation Becomes Exhaustion
Burnout is more than just feeling tired — it’s a state of chronic, cumulative exhaustion that develops when the balance between effort and recovery is lost. It’s particularly common amongst caregivers, health professionals, educators and high achievers — people who give their best for too long without replenishing their energy stores.
What is Burnout?
“Burnout is a bone-tired, soul-tired, heart-tired kind of exhaustion.” — James Pennebaker
Burnout isn’t a medical diagnosis, but it describes a set of experiences that can affect your mind, body, and sense of purpose. It often shows up as overwhelming fatigue, emotional detachment, loss of motivation, and a feeling of disconnection from work, colleagues, or even yourself.
The World Health Organization recognises burnout as a work phenomenon — not a personal weakness. It’s a signal that something needs to change, not a reason for self-blame.
How We Measure Burnout in the Thrive Program
The Thrive Health Check measures key factors that can either protect against or contribute to burnout — including energy, sleep patterns, engagement, stress levels, recovery, and lifestyle balance.
If you think you may be experiencing burnout, remember that symptoms can overlap with other conditions such as depression, anxiety, or medical causes of fatigue.
Check the medical recommendations in your action plan including the ‘Are you OK?’ assessment, to help to clarify what might be going on for you.
If you are concerned about how you are feeling, consider discussing this with a GP. Understanding what is driving your symptoms and identifying the right strategies to support recovery are important to do early on.
Risk Factors
Long work hours
Chronic time pressure
Poor boundaries between work and home life
High self expectations or perfectionism
Lack of control over workload or lack of recognition
Values misalignment - when what you do does not reflect what matters most to you
Signs You Might Be Burning Out
Emotional exhaustion or feeling ‘numb’
Detachment, cynicism, or loss or purpose
Persistent fatigue, despite rest
Loss of motivation or enjoyment
Physical symptoms (headaches, gut issues, disturbance)
Other causes have been ruled out.
Recovery and Rebuilding
Burnout recovery is about rebalancing effort with recovery and reconnecting with purpose. Try:
Rest and Replenish - prioritise sleep, movement and good nutrition
Set boundaries - “No'“ can be a full sentence. Learn to say this and protect your recovery time.
Reconnect with meaning - reflect on what truly motivates and inspires you.
Seek support - talk to your GP, psychologist, and/or a trusted colleague, you are not alone.
Rebuild gradually - small sustainable steps restore energy faster than drastic changes.