For the past few days, have you been unable to complete your files? This sluggishness is not surprising: it generally occurs when the days get shorter… and the light runs out. A phenomenon that has a funny name: “Pumpkin Spice Lethargy”…
What is “pumpkin lethargy”?
A month after the start of the school year, many of us feel intense fatigue. Blame it on the endless metro-work-sleep days, the fragile balance between personal and professional life or even the pressure experienced at work, which is often significant at the start of the year. A rather common “slump” in autumn, according to experts.
In this season,”“more employees are experiencing a form of burnout, which manifests itself as fatigue, lethargy and unease.” recognizes Joel Beverley, business leader, in the columns of Huffpost.
Of the “million workers” would also seem to be affected by this autumn fatigue…. without sometimes even realizing it. un phenomenon, which hardly surprises our psychologist.
“We come back from vacation recharged, full of energy and good intentions. But sometimes, as soon as we start again, a little disappointment sets in: the sky is gray, the routine resumes and the motivation crumbles. We find ourselves asking: “Am I really in my place in this job?”.
Result ? During these autumn months, physical fatigue is added to mental weariness. “Overwork lurks, and many recognize themselves in this feeling of wear and tear and routine. Teleworking also shows its limits here: when the sky is gray, we all need connections, exchanges, a more lively environment,” specifies Pascal Anger.
How to get out of this ambient gloom?
To get out of this professional burnout, it is essential to be in action, says the psychologist. The expert therefore recommends adopting the following 4 habits to regain tone and energy.
Create a stimulating work environment
“Whether you are teleworking or in the office, (re)creating a bright, warm and sound atmosphere is essential”says the expert. “Because while a “cocooning” environment has its benefits, be careful not to lock yourself in. Going out, going to lunch on the terrace, treating yourself to little moments of pleasure… all these everyday gestures allow you to recharge your batteries. And of course, don’t forget sport!”
Take care of care
“When you feel overwhelmed, you shouldn’t feel guilty. You need to be able to say it, simply, clearly (“No, I don’t have the energy right now”). And if tasks become too routine, too heavy, why not try to make things happen? Review your organization, change your schedule, it’s already a first step to getting better.” recalls the psychologist.
Find meaning and motivation
Workplace wear and tear is a reality. “Sometimes, I simply advise redoing your CV, making appointments, to see what happens. Re-reading your career path can restore confidence and allow you to re-motivate yourself. And ultimately, you often realize that your work is perhaps not so bad, once you get back into a positive dynamic!” assures the expert.
Finally, it is important to distinguish a simple slump from real suffering at work (burn-out). “If certain things no longer suit you, do not hesitate to request an interview, to express your needs, to say to your superior: “I would like it to be different on this point”, advises the psychologist.
Indeed, this insidious exhaustion is often linked to a “progressive isolation“, which can have consequences on health, including mental health. “Review the organization of your work, adjust your time management, follow training, discuss with HR – all these are among the possible levers. The main thing is not to be left alone in the face of a daily life that devitalizes“, concludes Pascal Anger.