We often feel motivated when we start a new job. We want to do well, make a positive impact, and work hard. Too often that desire to work hard fizzles away and we get burned out. Have you ever spent hours during the day thinking about being somewhere other than work? Have you ever felt isolated from your coworkers? Have you ever felt anger, disgust, or apathy towards the work you do?

Burnout is common and it is dangerous. It can negatively affect your work, your coworkers, your organization, and also your life satisfaction. I will use psychological research to discuss the signs of burnout, how to spot it (in yourself and others), what you can do when it occurs, and ways to keep the fire inside you alive.