Spotting Burnout in Your Team: How Leaders Can Take Action

A Leader’s Role in Burnout Prevention

As a leader, your influence shapes the culture and wellbeing of your team. Yet, even in the most supportive environments, burnout can take hold—manifesting as reduced engagement, emotional exhaustion, and declining performance.

If you suspect a colleague or staff member may be struggling, this guide is here to help. Learn how to identify burnout, take proactive steps to address it, and explore solutions like InsideOut Well’s Kickstarter plan to support a well-rounded and sustainable recovery.

Step 1: Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

Burnout isn’t always easy to spot, but subtle changes in behaviour and performance often reveal the strain. Use this quick diagnostic tool to assess whether someone on your team might be experiencing burnout.

Burnout in Others: A Diagnostic Guide

Burnout often manifests subtly, especially in high-performing individuals. If you’ve noticed changes in someone you care about or work closely with, this guide will help you identify potential signs of burnout. Reflect on their behaviour and demeanour over the last three months as you answer these questions.

1. How has their overall energy level appeared during conversations or meetings?

A: They’re consistently engaged and energetic.

B: They seem more tired or subdued than usual on occasion.

C: They often appear drained, lethargic, or uninterested.

2. How would you describe their approach to deadlines or responsibilities?

A: They tackle tasks with enthusiasm and maintain high standards.

B: They’re meeting expectations but seem less invested or motivated.

C: They’re missing deadlines, seem overwhelmed, or express frustration.

3. Have they shared thoughts or behaviors around their sense of purpose at work?

A: They speak positively about their role and contributions.

B: They’ve mentioned feeling stuck, undervalued, or questioning their purpose.

C: They’ve expressed cynicism, detachment, or a strong desire to disengage.

4. What’s their demeanor in team or social settings?

A: They’re actively participating and engaging with others.

B: They’re quieter or more withdrawn than usual.

C: They’re frequently irritable, detached, or uncharacteristically negative.

5. How would you describe their emotional state in recent interactions?

A: They’re emotionally stable, even under pressure.

B: They’ve had occasional moments of irritability, anxiety, or mood swings.

C: They’re often tense, reactive, or emotionally distant.

6. How have their physical habits or appearance changed?

A: There’s been no noticeable change—they appear healthy and active.

B: There’s been some visible fatigue, weight fluctuation, or a more disheveled appearance.

C: There are clear signs of strain, such as neglecting personal care or looking visibly unwell.

7. How often have they discussed work intruding on their personal life?

A: Rarely—they seem to maintain boundaries and a healthy balance.

B: Occasionally—they’ve shared struggles with finding balance or disconnecting from work.

C: Frequently—they regularly mention being overwhelmed or unable to find time for themselves.

What Their Results Suggest

Mostly A: Stable and Engaged 

Your observations suggest that this individual is managing stress well. Keep an open line of communication and offer support if needed to help them maintain their balance.

Mostly B: Early Warning Signs

There are indicators of growing strain or dissatisfaction. It might be time to have a gentle, supportive conversation about how they’re feeling and whether they need help managing stress.

Mostly C: At Risk of Burnout

The signs point to significant and sustained stress, likely bordering on burnout. Encourage them to prioritise their health and wellbeing, and suggest professional resources like InsideOut Well’s tailored programs to support their recovery.

Step 2: Taking Action as a Leader

If you’ve identified potential signs of burnout, here are practical steps to help your team member regain balance and resilience:

(i) Start the conversation

• Approach the topic in a private, nonjudgmental setting.

• Use open-ended questions like:

“I’ve noticed you’ve seemed stressed lately. How are you feeling?”

“Is there anything I can do to help lighten your workload?”

(ii) Adjust workload and expectations

• Review the team’s priorities and identify opportunities to redistribute tasks.

• Encourage setting realistic timelines and taking meaningful breaks.

(iii) Model healthy behaviours

• Demonstrate a commitment to work-life balance by disconnecting after hours or taking regular breaks yourself.

(iv) Recommend professional support

• Share resources like counselling or coaching programs.

• Suggest InsideOut Well's Kickstarter package as a tailored solution to help them regain clarity and resilience. As it is a highly personalised programme that covers both physical and mental care support, it accords the flexibility and privacy that burnt out executives would value.

Step 3: Introducing the Kickstarter Package

At InsideOut Well, we understand the pressures of modern work life and its impact on wellbeing. Our Kickstarter package is designed to provide personalised coaching and actionable strategies to:

• Identify stress triggers.

• Develop resilience tools spanning different forms of exercise, supportive nutrition plan and action-oriented chats with a life coach.

• Create sustainable habits that resonates with the individual's lifestyle choice for long-term success.

Why it works:

• Sessions are tailored to the individual’s needs and schedule.

• Confidential and non-intrusive support at a location chosen by the individual.

• Practical strategies they can apply immediately and calibrated with the individual's pace.

Schedule a consultation today to learn how our Kickstarter package can help your team thrive.

Conclusion: Your Leadership Matters

Burnout affects individuals, teams, and organisations, but leaders have the power to turn the tide. By recognising the signs early and taking thoughtful action, you can create a healthier, more engaged workplace.

If you’re ready to take the next step, explore our wellbeing solutions or schedule a consultation with InsideOut Well today.