Alison Griffin, a senior vice president at Whiteboard Advisors, a social impact consulting firm, and a single mother of two boys, knows the exact moment when she hit the wall during the pandemic and felt burned out.
Combating Burnout as a Single Working Parent
It’s up to employers to address the systemic causes of burnout at work. But in the meantime, here are four ways you can help yourself.
June 29, 2021
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Summary.
For a long time, single working parents have had to do it all — and since the Covid-19 pandemic began, they are under the greatest strain. Their time is scarce, they have extra demands, and potentially fewer resources. This all leads to one thing: burnout. While work burnout is rooted in work systems and cultures, and must be acknowledged at a systemic level, individuals can also take steps to help themselves. First, see the big picture: If you understand that burnout isn’t a personal failure, you’re much less likely to feel guilt or shame. Second, lower your demands by cutting yourself some slack and tap into your resources — most specifically, your strengths. Third, keep track of small wins. Fourth, ask for help. Finally, take a break and rest when you can.