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The workplace has undergone unprecedented digital transformation post pandemic, with a surge in online and hybrid jobs. Even on-site roles are increasingly getting integrated with digital technology as it reshapes the organisation and the entire work dynamics. While digital technology offers benefits such as convenience and flexibility, it also has some significant disadvantages that lead to stress, burnout, workplace exhaustion and even tech phobia. No wonder you visibly cringe when you see your work laptop on your days off. A new research study by the University of Nottingham’s School of Psychology and Medicine revealed two interconnected factors responsible for workplace exhaustion. The researchers called them the ‘dark side effects of the digital workplace’.
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Two factors that cause burnout and exhaustion in the workplace
information overload
You are constantly connected to your workplace through various digital devices, so you never leave the workplace, at least not virtually. Excessive use of these devices can lead to frequent interruptions, blurring the lines between personal and work life as messages and emails keep coming in. This can result in excessive use of email and messaging, so that you keep replying and checking notifications, leading to fatigue and stress. It can also make you more workaholic with easy access to work mail everywhere.
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FOMO
The constant connectivity of today’s digital world leads to fear of missing out (FOMO). It is a predictable apprehension that you might miss out on a great opportunity or experience. At work, this manifests as a constant desire to stay updated, frequently checking notifications and information streams to avoid missing out on important updates. This constant vigilance and alertness leads to stress and burnout at work.
FOMO is naturally linked to information overload in a vicious cycle where the innate fear of missing out on something leads you to check your digital technology frequently, which inevitably triggers stress from constantly consuming work-related information. When you try to switch off for a moment to focus, either to complete an assignment at work or at home, you experience intense FOMO, feeling like by not staying updated you will miss out on a major event update, which you may view as negligence and reflect poorly on your work performance. So, it’s all linked in a cycle. The study found that of all the drawbacks of the digital workplace, FOMO is the biggest risk factor for poor mental health of employees working digitally.
Suggestion
The researchers recommend that employers develop strategies to optimize the volume and flow of information provided to employees. They also suggest that HR departments consider implementing various policies and training programs to help employees use digital devices in a more effective and healthy way. These initiatives should help employees access, manage, and consume information, boosting both their well-being and productivity.
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