Last week I was hit with a great question while discussing themes from my book with a group of communication pros at a global company: "We're all exhausted. How do we manage the constant learning and overwhelm with all the new technology and change?"
Firstly, I loved the fact that someone felt safe enough to ask this in front of 100 peers (kudos to the company). Too often, we try to be swans—gliding on the surface while frantically paddling underneath.
Here’s how I see it:
Our people are exhausted:
We can help reduce workplace stress and burnout by reducing information overload. This includes: streamlining content, tailored delivery of content (digital workplace tools), and having a clear channel and content strategy.
Clearly marking high-value, priority content. Harari in his latest book Nexus talks about truth and quality content unfortunately sinking to the bottom in an information overloaded world.
Consider immersive communication techniques. This is experience-based communication rather than push/pull content-based, and aims to reduce the cognitive load of the message.
Our communication teams are exhausted:
Lighten the load with bite-sized learning sessions scheduled into their calendars. It is important to give 'permission' to dedicate time to process improvement and tool learning that will make their daily work easier.
Let's do it together! Leader-led programs that reduce the need for self-motivation in key tool upskilling (e.g., gen AI or Co-pilot) free up brainpower for essential tasks. I know the traditional way is to promote self-directed learning to tap into motivation, but the rules change when you're juggling exhaustion. It is about reducing cognitive load and burden of choice (think Steven Pinker's The Sense of Style.) Let them step into the slipstream of your lead.
Clear team member workload visibility aids prioritization and work reallocation. Paired with a clear service offer, you can also use it to manage stakeholders' expectations. Effective leaders also use project mapping to rotate members through high-intensity roles.
Provide consistency and structure (with flexibility) so they can rely on routines, habits, and the known.
On a personal level:
It is important to build in conscious recovery periods. This is something that I know from my archery days, but it has taken me a long time to apply to my work. It might be the Pomodoro technique for daily focus or a full recovery day after extensive travel.
Many high-performing friends such as Katie Macaulay advise to dip into where you know you can get information, look for it, and get out quickly. I'm talking about social media and news platforms here. Discipline is key.
Let me know what works for you! Just connect and DM me on LinkedIn.
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