Is Your Job Becoming Too Much to Handle?
Do you feel like your workload has quietly doubled over time?
Maybe a colleague left, and suddenly, you’re covering their tasks.
Or your job keeps evolving, and no one’s given you the training to keep up.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, and stuck in a never-ending cycle of work, you’re not alone.
Burnout is a serious issue, and if your job is constantly demanding more than you can realistically handle, it’s time to take action.
Signs That Your Workload is Unsustainable
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It creeps up gradually. Here are some red flags:
- Longer Hours – You start early, finish late, and log in on weekends just to stay afloat.
- Skipping Breaks – Lunch is now a ten-minute snack while replying to emails.
- Never-Ending To-Do List – No matter how much you work, there’s always more.
- Unrealistic Expectations – Your role keeps expanding, but support and training don’t.
- Workplace Culture Normalising Overwork – If everyone starts early, finishes late, and checks emails at all hours, it’s easy to feel trapped in a cycle of overwork.
What Can You Do About It?
If your job is causing stress and burnout, here are some steps to regain control:
- Talk to Your Manager – They may not realize you’re struggling. Be clear about what’s unsustainable and suggest practical solutions.
- Know Your Rights – Employers have a legal responsibility to ensure your workload is manageable. If you’re being pushed beyond your capacity, it’s worth speaking to HR.
- Seek External Support – If your workplace isn’t listening, organizations like ACAS offer confidential advice on work-related problems.
- Consider Career Coaching – Sometimes, burnout is a sign that your job is no longer right for you. A career coach can help you explore options, from negotiating a better role to changing careers entirely.
How Two of Our Clients Took Control of Their Careers
Case Study 1: Negotiating for a Better Workload
Sarah, a marketing manager, found herself working late most evenings just to keep up with unrealistic deadlines. Her team had shrunk, but the workload hadn’t. She was exhausted, missing out on family time, and constantly stressed.
With the support of her career coach, Sarah built a strong case for change. She tracked her daily tasks, highlighting where her workload had increased beyond reasonable expectations. Her coach helped her prepare for a difficult conversation with her manager – one where she confidently presented solutions rather than just raising concerns.
The result? Her employer acknowledged the issue and agreed to adjust her responsibilities, hire an additional team member, and allow her to set clearer boundaries around her working hours. Sarah’s stress levels dropped, and she found balance in her job again.
Case Study 2: Walking Away to Find Something Better
James, a project manager, was in a similar situation – but with a key difference. His employer refused to acknowledge how unsustainable his workload had become. Despite multiple discussions, nothing changed. He was constantly overwhelmed, his health was suffering, and he felt trapped.
After working with his career coach, James realised he had more options than he thought. His coach helped him recognize his transferable skills, refine his CV, and prepare for job interviews.
The result? Within two months, James secured a new role in a company that valued work-life balance. He went from dreading Mondays to actually enjoying his job again.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Feeling stuck in a job that’s making you miserable is exhausting – but you don’t have to figure it all out alone.
That’s where our Be Your Own Career Coach course can help.
Inside, we support you to:
- Understand what’s not working (and why)
- Identify what you need from your career
- Explore better options
- Create a realistic plan for change
So instead of just coping with your current situation… You can start changing it.
Explore the Be Your Own Career Coach course
Not ready for a course? Download our free Career Change toolkit – 10 practical guides to help you take your next step.