The topic of burnout has been talked about extensively in recent years: as a reality that plagues many workers and companies, awareness on how to prevent it has normalized the issue and destigmatized the topic of mental health, valuing self-care and underlining the importance of healthier workplaces. 

However, the focus that has been given to burnout sometimes overshadows the importance of maintaining daily energy so that leaders and workers can face the constant challenges that characterize the modern world. It is essential to recognize the signs of decreased energy, which manifest themselves through symptoms such as decreased patience, a heightened sense of insecurity and increased stress, to prevent mental health issues. 

Two experts from Harvard Business Review have identified five dimensions, or “energy batteries” that must be nourished daily, even if in small doses: 

• Physical battery: Referring to physical health and vitality, it is charged through adequate sleep, movement, and good nutrition. 
• Mental battery: Measured on clarity, focus, and intellectual agility, is restored by activities such as mindfulness and learning, and depleted by constant demands and interruptions.  
• Emotional battery: Creativity, emotional intelligence and self-regulation, it is jeopardized by having to manage conflicts or relive hurtful events and can be recharged through enjoyable activities, hobbies, creative practices, or time with family and friends.  
• Spiritual battery: Includes motivation and a sense of purpose, and can be restored through time in nature, volunteer work, and religious, spiritual, or introspective practices. 
• Social battery: Referring to both personal and professional relationships, it is nourished by social activities and being able to freely and safely travel, and is depleted when one does not feel physically and/or psychologically safe where they live or work, or when one is worried about the well-being of loved ones. 

By understanding which batteries are depleting and why, individuals can implement small habits to recharge effectively. For instance, small adjustments like taking short breaks throughout the day or incorporating mindfulness practices can yield significant improvements. By cultivating daily resilience and mindful energy management, one can both take care of one’s well-being and build crucial skills for navigating crisis situations effectively. 

 —

Source: Harvard Business Review