How do you all start caring at work again after a burn out? I was a top performer, really cared, was willing to put my all into projects. I left the job I burned out from and joined an agency that I have no motivation to perform at. I am just not willing to put over 40hrs in and it has caused problems. I don’t think I fully healed from the burn out…and I have two young kids….at the end of the day I think I really just hate the industry in general now if I’m being honest. But…I need to work..
I stopped caring when the department focus went from doing good client work to only caring about and inventing out of thin air above and beyond award bait
Chief
You don’t. You got adpilled, friend. Now, you discover what your new method for making great work is when it isn’t throwing yourself against the rocks.
Your body told you that your previous way of working wasn’t the right one - congrats on learning that lesson!
You also have two young kids, that’s way more meaningful than any Ad job could ever be. Focus on what matters; it damn sure isn’t your job!
I feel exactly the same. I just quit my soul sucking full-time gig, got a new one and I just… don’t have it me. However, I also need a job. I think I need to start working out again.
I know some people do it 🙃..but I swear they have at least an extra hour in their day than me ha
Damn yes you’re still burned out. Go client side.
I don’t have much to add, but I feel one great thing about being an account person is that the skillset can totally lend itself to other industries that are better. Being a client liaison, understanding time lines, and so on. This works well across other industries that absolutely treat humans better. It might not t be as sexy as advertising, but better money and work life balance is out there for sure.
Are you me?
I feel this. What’s helped me is trying to find opportunities to do the things that motivate me, even if I’m not getting them in my day to day. It could be giving back by mentoring, putting forward proactive ideas… what ever reconnects you with why you used to like your job. Good luck.
I went through a similar situation. For many years I was very passionate about the business. But too many years of endless workdays and abusive pay became two much once I became a dad to two kids. How good of a husband and father could I be if I was always on the verge of a breakdown?
I finally went client side. It’s much better balance and compensation but it has its own dark side. Know that you’re definitely not alone. I wish you well.
If it’s causing problems that you won’t work overtime that’s the problem. Hold your boundaries and let them have to ask you why. We’re all just trying to do our best while also being humans in the middle of some crazy times. Doing your job and doing it well is enough. Don’t let anyone try to make you feel bad about not working overtime. If they want to, cool. You do you. But those days of everyone working 70 hours a week are over. At least in my book. I am very clear with my team and will step in every time a client or CE team tries to say otherwise.
Nah. Fuckem. If they brought you to this point do the required, don't go above and beyond, and use the time to look for a new job. Give notice and use any sick pay for the rest of it.
Is it possible you joined the wrong agency?
Yes, very much so.