Freudenberger and Burnout
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Recently, I sat in on a workshop focused on pastoral burnout.
In my coaching work with pastors, it’s a topic that comes up often.
So first, the relatively good news: the latest surveys from the Barna Group have shown a decrease in the number of pastors who said they had “seriously considered leaving full-time ministry within the past year” —down from the peak levels of the pandemic. As of late, that number is now about a quarter of all Protestant senior pastors.
Better, but still…
The workshop introduced a fascinating model that was new to me. Developed over fifty years ago by a psychologist studying his colleagues working in a free addiction clinic, Dr. Herbert Freudenberger began recognizing patterns of burnout. He defined burnout simply as a condition of mental and physical exhaustion caused by work. Collaborating with Dr. Gail North, he identified twelve progressive stages of burnout. Burnout is now officially recognized by the World Health Organization as a legitimate occupational hazard.
But I’m sure you already knew that… because you’ve probably experienced it at some level. So let’s take a look at those levels.
Freudenberger’s Twelve-Stage Model
Compulsive ambition: “I must prove myself”
Working harder: “I must do more”
Neglecting needs: “I don’t have time for that”
Avoiding conflict: “Nothing is wrong”
Revising values: “This is more important”
Denying problems: “The problem is others”
Withdrawal: “I need time alone”
Concerning others: “I’m fine, stop worrying”
Depersonalization: “I just need to make it through today”
Sense of emptiness: “I don’t feel much anymore”
Depression: “Nothing really matters”
Final stage of burnout: “I can’t go on”
Not surprisingly, leaders who identify as “high achievers” are the most obvious targets. These folks are often overly ambitious and perfectionistic, and sadly, they can miss recognizing these stages because of their drivenness. Even worse, burnout sneaks up gradually. Those of us who connect “who we are”—that is, our self-worth and identity—to our work are well-primed for burnout.
And like any disease, the earlier it’s detected, the better. It’s not to be messed with—not only for your personal sake, but also for the health of your organization. Recovery requires more than rest: a total reorientation of values guarded with clear boundaries is critical.
Positively, burnout is reversible. And it’s not inevitable. But it does require a heightened sense of honesty, self-awareness, and vulnerability.
So three big questions:
— Where would you place yourself on those twelve stages?
— Who can you confidentially talk with to get real help?
— And wouldn’t that be a better way to go than simply dropping out?
Dave Workman | The Elemental Group
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