Am I the only one who keeps taking on more projects, even when completely exhausted?

Many people find themselves in a cycle of pushing through fatigue to take on additional work. This often stems from a desire to prove capability, meet high expectations, or a fear of missing opportunities. It's a common pattern in demanding work environments, and it can become incredibly draining over time.

Research from Deloitte suggests that 77% of professionals have experienced burnout in their current job, with excessive workload being a primary contributing factor.

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Does everyone take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Is It Normal?

Is it weird to take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Is It Weird?

Why do I take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

Like, I just turned 58 and I've been teaching third grade for thirty-five years in the same little school, the one I actually went to myself, and you’d think I’d have it all figured out by now. …

burnout denial

Like, someone was telling me this really sad, intense story the other day, about something truly awful that happened to them, and I was sitting there, nodding, making all the right noises, and inside… …

burnout denial

He’s a foreman at a big construction site down the road from where I grew up. …

burnout denial

My dad’s bistro. …

burnout denial

She's got this terrible headache, keeps rubbing her temples, but she's insisting to anyone who asks, which is usually just me, that it’s just her “seasonal allergies acting up. …

burnout denial

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I feel obligated to say yes to every new project?▾
The pressure to say yes often comes from a mix of workplace culture, a desire for career advancement, or a fear of letting others down. Sometimes it's also about maintaining a specific image of productivity or indispensability.
What are the long-term effects of constantly overworking?▾
Consistently overworking without adequate rest can lead to chronic fatigue, decreased job satisfaction, and a higher risk of making mistakes. It can also strain personal relationships and impact overall well-being.
How can I reduce my workload without appearing uncommitted?▾
Start by clearly communicating your current capacity and prioritizing tasks with your manager. Learning to politely decline non-essential requests or suggest alternative solutions can help manage expectations without seeming disengaged.

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