Topic: Understanding Burnout Across Generations

• Burnout is no longer a late-career issue.
  It’s now showing up younger and faster—even in teens.

• Not a sign of weakness—the meaning and context of burnout have evolved with the times.

• Boomers (50s–60s):

  • Burnout from decades of overwork, lack of emotional support, no "pause" culture.

  • Often shows up as physical health issues later in life.

• Gen X (40s):

  • The "invisible" generation, raised on self-reliance and silence.

  • Burnout is quiet, often hidden, and compounded by responsibility overload.

• Millennials (Late 20s–30s):

  • Sold a life script that collapsed post-2008 crisis.

  • Burnout shows up as existential fatigue and dissatisfaction with life's progress.

• Gen Z (Teens–Early 20s):

  • Burnt out before careers even begin—from chronic uncertainty, information overload, and comparison culture.

  • Shows up as disengagement, quiet quitting, or a baseline of exhaustion.

1. Unfair treatment at work

2. Unmanageable workload

3. Unclear communication

4. Lack of manager support

5. Unreasonable time pressure

• Burnout is systemic, but small personal shifts help:

  • Rediscover meaning in life (career, community, health, etc.)

  • Make micro-adjustments: say no, reconnect with friends, seek mentorship.

  • Self-awareness is key: know your personality & burnout patterns.

  • Use self-compassion—start small, allow space to pause and reflect.

  • Tailor solutions to your generation & individual context.

“Burnout isn't just from doing too much—it's from doing too much of what no longer matters.”