Stuck in Workplace “Boreout”? Here’s How to Snap Out of It
Most modern employees are familiar with burnout—the overwhelming exhaustion caused by long hours, too many tasks, and constantly feeling behind. However, there’s a lesser-known yet equally damaging phenomenon creeping into workplaces: boreout. Unlike burnout, where you’re exhausted from too much to do, boreout occurs when you feel disengaged, under-stimulated, and unchallenged at work. This chronic boredom can lead to emotional fatigue, a loss of motivation, and a slow decline in your professional satisfaction.
For many, it’s hard to recognize boreout because it often goes unnoticed, both by the person experiencing it and their managers. But just like burnout, boreout is real and can have serious consequences on mental health, career development, and overall well-being. If you’ve been feeling like your workday is filled with mundane, repetitive tasks that leave you questioning your purpose, you may be dealing with boreout.
Here’s how to recognize it and, more importantly, what you can do to overcome it.
What is Boreout, Really?
Image via Unsplash/Vitaly Gariev
Boreout is not just a temporary feeling of being bored at work. It’s a prolonged state of disengagement, where you are left feeling uninspired and disconnected from your tasks. When employees experience boreout, they are often underutilized and tasked with monotonous duties that fail to challenge them.
Unlike burnout, which typically stems from an overload of responsibilities and stress, boreout is the result of a lack of stimulation, meaningless work, and unfulfilled potential.
It’s like being stuck in a job that isn’t taxing your skills or helping you grow. You might feel like you’re just going through the motions, working on autopilot, and not contributing anything meaningful.
Unfortunately, this can affect performance, erode your mental and physical health, and cause stress, anxiety, and even depression. Over time, boreout can lead to frustration, a loss of confidence, and an eventual desire to leave your job altogether.
Signs You’re Experiencing Boreout
Because it’s often mistaken for laziness or a lack of ambition, boreout can be difficult to spot. You may still be meeting deadlines and completing tasks, but the lack of engagement makes everything feel less rewarding. Here are some signs that you might be dealing with boreout:
- Lack of motivation: You’ve lost your enthusiasm for work and struggle to get started, even when the tasks are manageable.
- Underperformance despite capability: You have the skills and experience, but find yourself doing the bare minimum because the tasks don’t challenge you.
- Monotonous, repetitive work: The tasks you’re assigned are mind-numbing, and they don’t require creativity or problem-solving.
- Feeling disconnected: You’re mentally checked out and feel isolated and disengaged from your colleagues and your work.
- Physical symptoms: Boreout can manifest physically through fatigue, poor sleep, headaches, and even gastrointestinal issues.
If you’re finding it hard to feel energized or excited about your work, it might be time to consider that you’re experiencing boreout rather than a temporary case of the Monday blues.
Why It’s Important to Address Boreout, and How
Image via Unsplash/Luis Villasmil
Workers who experience chronic boredom are more likely to suffer from stress, frustration, and even burnout. Chronic boredom slows down one’s energy, motivation, and well-being and can affect every aspect of life, both in and outside of work.
For anyone experiencing boreout, there are steps you can take to combat it. The first step is having an open conversation with your supervisor. Explain how you’re feeling and express a desire for more challenging tasks. Share your skills and interests to see if there are new projects or responsibilities you can take on. By speaking up, you may be able to unlock new opportunities that make you feel more engaged and valued.
If your current role lacks stimulation, feel free to proactively seek new challenges. Volunteer for cross-departmental projects, look for opportunities to learn new skills, or ask for training that can help you grow professionally. Even small changes in your routine can bring back a sense of excitement and purpose.
Sometimes, the best way to combat boredom is to find meaning outside of your job through hobbies, side projects, or engaging in activities that bring you fulfillment. This not only balances your mental energy but also gives you something to look forward to outside of work.
Don’t underestimate the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Boreout often occurs when we neglect our well-being. Make time for activities that help you recharge—whether it’s exercise, socializing, or pursuing creative passions. Taking care of yourself is key to maintaining motivation and energy, both at work and in life.
It might be time to reassess your career path if you’ve explored all the options and still feel unfulfilled. A change of scenery could be exactly what you need to find more stimulating and rewarding work. Start small by researching different industries or roles that align with your passions and skills.
Take Action Now
Image via Unsplash/Abdulbosit Melikuziev
Boreout is simply a sign that you need more from your job. The good news is that by taking action and seeking meaning and purpose, you can break free from this cycle and reignite your passion, career satisfaction, and well-being. After all, you deserve a fulfilling and challenging work life.