When you’re overloaded with work and not getting the restoration you need, there's a risk that you could be on a path toward burning out.

There can be some early signals such as fatigue, a lack of confidence, you're more grumpy or cynical than usual or you might even be withdrawing from the things you’d normally be engaged in.

It’s a tough situation because you know how important the work is that you're doing and what it means to your manager, your team and the organisation.

If you feel you’re not performing anywhere near your best, then this is an appropriate time to take action. Be courageous and get some time for the important rest and recovery your mind and body are calling out for.

You may feel apprehensive about this and lack the confidence to ask for support. The fear of how your manager or team might react can get in the way of expressing your need for restoration.

To help you navigate this, here is a 5-step process to give you some confidence in communicating your needs effectively while also considering your leader’s perspective and the company's goals.

1. Express Understanding of your Company's Goals:

Begin the conversation by acknowledging the importance of the work and its impact on the organisation. Use language that demonstrates understanding and alignment with these goals. For example: "I deeply appreciate the significance of our current project and its value to our team and the company."

2. Clearly State Personal Needs with Honesty and Directness:

Be courageous. Explain your situation without downplaying the need for a break. Use clear, direct language that articulates personal needs while avoiding sounding like making excuses. For instance: "With the workload I’ve had on my plate, I've noticed that my energy levels have been decreasing lately, which I believe is affecting my performance. I feel that a short period of rest would help me recharge and contribute more effectively."

3. Propose a Practical Solution:

Suggest a specific, feasible plan that minimises impact on work and your team. This could be taking a morning or a half-day off or a flexible schedule for a short period. Phrase it in a way that shows consideration for the ongoing projects and deadlines: "I propose to take a half-day off to focus on my wellbeing and recharging. I've planned it in a way that it won't interfere with our critical deadlines."

4. Highlight the Benefits to the Team and Company:

Emphasise how taking this time off will ultimately benefit the team and company. For example: "By taking this short break, I believe I will be able to return with renewed energy and focus, which will positively impact my work quality and efficiency, contributing to our team's success."

5. Request Feedback and Show Flexibility:

End by inviting your leader or manager's input and showing a willingness to find a middle ground. Say something like: "I value your perspective and am open to any suggestions you might have on how I can manage this situation in a way that supports both my wellbeing and our team's goals."

Remember, the key is to be authentic, honest and courageous about your needs. Propose a reasonable solution, and communicate in a way that shows you’re mindful and considerate of the team and company's objectives.

If you don’t get what you feel is an appropriate response, don’t give up. Get curious about what supports might be available. When thinking about what’s in your control, find ways to restore throughout the day. Taking micro-breaks, eating less sugar (even when your body is craving it), staying hydrated, having a good sleep routine, and keeping connected with the people who care about you will help mitigate the risk of getting sick and your battery running out.

If you're interested in how to foster a workplace culture that empowers you and your team to build and respect realistic expectations and boundaries, be sure to check out the extensive collection available in Benny Button's workshop guide.