How to prevent employee burnout through a growth mindshift 

The mindshift

Acceptance and achievement

Human beings have two fundamental psychological needs: acceptance and achievement. When both are met, we feel grounded and can perform at a high level – we feel comfortable challenging and being challenged by others without acting defensively. Leaders can create this inclusive environment at an organizational level through a two-stage mindshift:

1. Think of yourself as a “coach” rather than a “manager”

The higher you climb up the leadership ladder, the more important it is to be curious, ask questions, and encourage others to share their thoughts and feelings.

2. Create a framework where people feel empowered to take risks

If we want innovation, we need to create inclusivity, so people feel psychologically safe to contribute their full potential without fear of retribution.

Five steps to make it happen

1. Develop awareness

Awareness of how we lead is critical. Often, we don’t stop to question long-held assumptions. Becoming aware that we may be acting defensively based on past behaviors is an important step toward a growth mindshift. This requires self-reflection, practicing mindfulness or breathwork, and soliciting feedback from others regarding how our behavior impacts those around us to gain awareness of how we lead.

2. Take responsibility

This is about recognizing that we have power to choose rather than falling into a state of victimhood. It involves embracing a more responsible and inclusive form of leadership. Underlying this is the concept of agency: we can all intervene in our habitual responses and choose an alternative approach.

3. Mind your language!

Think about the terminology you use: so much of the vocabulary of business is based on metaphors of machinery and warfare (think “engines of growth,” “key performance indicators,” or even “bullet points”). Shift to using language that connotates something positive.

4. Listen actively

Practice active listening by showing interest in others, tuning into their non-verbal signals, and giving them your undivided attention.

5. Reflect on your actions

Schedule time for a short daily reflection and ask yourself simple questions, such as, “When did I have a fixed mindset today, and why?” or “When did I have a growth mindshift, and why?”