Can You Still Be a "Team Player" Even Though You Really Need a Break?
There can be much value in being a “team player” at work. It involves many characteristics like flexibility, positivity, and a willingness to put the team before yourself. Everyone has a role but the end result outweighs any individual praise. In theory, being a team player sounds noble. In practice, it can be challenging and exhausting. Not to mention, focusing primarily on the team can hold you back in terms of career growth.
There’s the rub. You want your company to succeed, and you want yourself to succeed. But sometimes, you just need a break from this delicate balancing act.
A Few Ways Being a Team Player Can Lead to Burnout
You are so focused on a consensus that you slow your own ability to develop into a confident leader.
Your decision-making becomes solely based on the input of others.
Being a cog in the machine can cost you raises, promotions, and other perks.
Always saying “yes” leaves you feeling overwhelmed.
All the non-stop communication is exhausting.
You dedicate time and energy to projects that do not feel important.
Your job starts to overshadow other aspects of your life.
What you really need is a break.
How You Can Still Be a Team Player Even Though You Really Need a Break
The first step might involve you being more strategic when it comes to the projects you work on. Three things to keep in mind:
You can talk to management about finding a healthy balance between working on a team vs. individual projects. Show them you’re also a team player when it comes to finding balance.
Pay close attention to the teammates you appreciate and take steps to work with them more often. Compatible co-workers can make it feel like you got the break you need.
Hone your skills by finding specialties you enjoy. This can increase your value to the company while also leading to more personal autonomy.
Making choices like these can reduce the likelihood of feeling overshadowed and/or burnt out. But the skill you may need most is learning how to diplomatically say no, e.g.:
Prepare in Advance
Before you get taken by surprise by a team effort request, practice some basic ways to respectfully decline. If you’re over-scheduled, you can explain it in a friendly way. Or, if you feel the project is not best suited for you, find others to recommend in your place. Of course, if you have outside obligations, practice explaining this simply and calmly.
Negotiate When Necessary
If a “no” is not possible, present other solutions. Set boundaries and maintain some control over the situation — and your life.
End the Interaction on a Positive Note
When you set a boundary with a boss or supervisor and things go well, always say, “Thanks for understanding.” By doing so, you are expressing gratitude while giving them the credit they probably seek.
Why Do You Really Need a Break?
Beyond the above information and suggestions, there is still the important matter of you really needing a break. It is essential that you honor and explore this need. While the causes may seem obvious, there can be many underlying causes that need to be uprooted. Of course, work-related stress can play a big role but sometimes, it runs deeper.
To safeguard your mental and physical well-being, it’s helpful to connect with someone who can guide you on such a journey. An experienced therapist is an ideal partner in any effort to discern the reasons for burnout, agitation, and exhaustion at work. If any of the above resonated with you, I invite you to reach out. Let’s connect soon to talk about the possibilities with work-stress therapy.