After Burnout, “Rust Out”. What is “Rusting” at Work?

The phenomenon is becoming evident in the workplace and, similar to other trends that emerged in the post-pandemic era, it reflects a void and unease that call for new paths.

If you have the feeling that your days are becoming dull, monotonous, and uninspired, and instead you are progressively overcome by states of apathy and discouragement, especially in the workplace, know that you are not alone. It is likely that you are “rusting out.” We are talking about the lack of vital energy that hinders movement and seems to be taking the corporate world by storm. In English, it’s called “Rust Out,” a term used in the metalworking industry that refers to the deterioration of a material due to rust.

A noticeable trend is emerging in the professional world, echoing other post-pandemic shifts. It points to a sense of emptiness and discomfort, suggesting a need for new approaches to work and well-being.

If your workdays feel lackluster, repetitive, and devoid of inspiration, and you’re increasingly experiencing feelings of indifference and discouragement, particularly at your job, be assured you’re not isolated in this. You might be experiencing “rust out.” This refers to a depletion of essential energy that stifles action and appears to be significantly impacting the corporate environment. This state is termed “Rust Out” in English, drawing a parallel to the way rust deteriorates metal in manufacturing.

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Regarding the “Rust Out” Phenomenon and Solutions

How can one cope with this kind of emotional numbness that impacts performance, not only at work but in other areas of life? What’s the point of it all?

Firstly, it’s important to note that this strategy, which isn’t always conscious, doesn’t just affect those at the bottom; even those in top positions can fall victim to it. No matter how dedicated they are to achieving goals with the best intentions, a day will likely come when they question: “What’s the use if I have no time to enjoy life and don’t feel happy?”

In a recent Harper’s Bazaar article, coach Eddie Whittingham, founder of GoFounder, explains how “rust out” sets in: “Often, people start working with the intention of creating a great business, but then a sense of unease develops, and they realize they’ve created a job for themselves – instead of building a business that frees them from daily monotony.”

When someone starts to feel “rusted out” (in other words, uncomfortable in their role or mission), could it mean it’s time to consider a new definition of success? How can one escape this predicament? Is it still possible to “de-rust”?

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Regarding “Rust Out” and Solutions (Paraphrased)

Dealing with this emotional drain that affects how we perform, not just at work but in our personal lives, depends on many things. These include our past experiences, our personality, and how willing we are to look at things from a fresh perspective. Sónia Teles Fernandes, a specialist in Communication and Image and the face of the World Failurists Congress (an event celebrating failure to take the pressure off success), starts by mentioning multi-purpose products that protect metal from rust and corrosion, repel moisture, and restore its shine.

Since there’s no direct human equivalent, it’s natural to feel “the weariness of daily life, a lack of direction, the feeling of missing out on something better, and seeing our efforts as pointless and wasted.” It’s like just “going through the motions” without any real aim, she adds.

Just like product formulas are numbered, suggesting earlier versions didn’t quite work and the new one is the right one, the coach offers a suggestion: “If the ‘rust’ of life is weighing you down – situations of pure demotivation, lack of perspective, and exhaustion – don’t add to the burden with the ghosts of past failures. Make peace with them and leave them behind as you decide how to move forward.”

The more skeptical might think this is easier said than done. However, that attitude isn’t helpful either, because at the end of the day, the question remains: “What am I doing with my life?”

Signs of the Times

The challenge is to understand the signs of disappointment, discomfort, apathy, and boredom, and to do something about them. This involves some effort (a word that feels like something to avoid for many in this state).

Escaping the limbo of “meh” (neither no nor yes), or a certain stagnation, might mean stepping outside your comfort zone and daring to ask for help from qualified professionals (psychologist, coach, mentor), but it’s likely worth the effort. And it doesn’t have to be like in Neil Young’s song “My My, Hey Hey (Out of the Blue)” (“It’s better to burn out than it is to rust”). This reference actually appears in an article from Oprah Daily, published in August, which explains the possible origin of the phenomenon through those who have studied it, like Teena Clouston.

Aristides Ferreira, a lecturer in the Department of Human Resources and Organizational Behavior at ISCTE, says that materialism, cold human relationships, and increased competition create a huge void that oxidizes and “rusts” people.

Teena Clouston, a lecturer at the Faculty of Biomedical and Life Sciences at Cardiff University in the UK, is a specialist in occupational therapy and well-being and the author of “Challenging Stress, Burnout and Rust Out: Finding Balance in Busy Lives.” She states that this feeling of disconnection, apathy, and alienation “is directly related to a lack of satisfaction or purpose in life.”

In this sense, “rusting out” is comparable to FOMO (fear of missing out): “The person gradually deteriorates without being able to stop it.” This applies to the desire to want something better to do than stay in the loop of monotonous tasks they already know (and which only contribute to increasing boredom).

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Summary and Paraphrase of the Article Excerpt

This passage discusses the negative consequences of “rust out” in the workplace, a post-pandemic phenomenon characterized by apathy and disengagement. This leads to absenteeism and avoidance behaviors like distractions and addictions, negatively impacting work performance and personal life.

Aristides Ferreira from ISCTE notes that post-pandemic disillusionment with job expectations, leadership, and colleagues has contributed to this. He also points to Portugal’s bureaucratic nature as creating a conflict between well-being and work realities. Ferreira argues that materialism, cold relationships, and increased competition create a significant void that “rusts” people.

The article suggests that when career progression is slow and post-lockdown ideals aren’t met, people may prioritize personal time and redefine their life goals. Autonomy, mastery, and purpose are highlighted as key factors for well-being at work, as noted in an Australian article. Some employers are starting to implement policies promoting these.

However, not all employers can easily adopt such policies. The text concludes by reminding readers that boredom isn’t always negative and can sometimes be a catalyst for creativity and solutions, as history shows.

Read the original article on: visao.pt

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