When it comes to what to do about workplace burnout, much of the advice in the popular press can be boiled down to superficial advice: go to a spa, take a nap, treat yourself. Burnout is often portrayed as an individual problem and self-care to reduce stress is the only antidote to manage it. Yet workplace burnout is an organizational problem that requires systemic solutions, especially for one group in particular: single parents.
How Companies Can Support Single Parents
Organizations need to implement policies to address single-parent burnout.
June 28, 2021
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Summary.
The United States has the one of the highest rates of children living in single-parent households in the world. But may organizations don’t recognize the unique circumstances of solo parents. They make demands that single parents especially can’t meet, which takes a toll on emotional and physical well-being, hurts their careers, and eventually leads to burnout.
Organizations and work cultures, not individuals, are the root of the problem when it comes to burnout. Here are a few things companies need to do to address single-parent burnout: First, make an effort to hire and promote solo parents, and ensure that the company culture is inclusive of solo parents. Structure and organize work creatively and flexibly by moving away from the “always-available” working norm. Create opportunities to set boundaries, take breaks, and rest. Finally, support your single-parent employees by helping with child care and support public policies for working parents.