The demand for women in technology is growing rapidly. Companies are increasingly recognizing the value and unique perspectives that women bring to the table, and women are making strides in the tech industry. However, with all of these advancements come challenges, and one of the biggest obstacles for women in tech is burnout.
Burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to stress. It can lead to a lack of motivation, decreased productivity, and can even cause physical health problems. Burnout is a significant problem for women in tech, as they often face unique challenges such as gender bias, underrepresentation, and imposter syndrome, which can exacerbate the stress of their work.
So, how can women in tech overcome burnout and continue to thrive in their careers? To answer this question, we spoke with Mariana Carvalho, a writer, career mentor, and co-founder of Brazilians in Tech, to discuss her insights on this important topic.
Importance of Setting Boundaries:
One of the key ways to avoid burnout is by setting boundaries. In the tech industry, it’s common for employees to work long hours and be “always-on.” However, this constant work culture can lead to burnout, so it’s crucial to set boundaries to ensure that you don’t get overwhelmed.
Mariana recommends setting boundaries around your work schedule, such as not checking your email after a certain time, or taking breaks throughout the day. She also suggests communicating your boundaries with your team or manager, so they are aware of your limitations and can support you in sticking to them.
Self-Care Tools:
Self-care is essential to prevent burnout, and there are many different self-care tools that women in tech can use. According to Mariana, finding activities that bring you joy, such as exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones. She also emphasizes the importance of getting enough sleep and eating well to maintain physical health.
Supportive Community:
Having a supportive community is crucial when it comes to avoiding burnout. Women in tech can face unique challenges, and having a network of people who understand these challenges can provide emotional support and guidance.
Mariana suggests joining a community of like-minded individuals, such as a women in tech group, attending industry events, or even starting your own group. Having a community of people who understand your experiences and can offer advice and support can make a significant difference in preventing burnout.
Find more about Brazilians in Tech 💜
Professional Help:
Finally, seeking professional help is another important step in preventing and overcoming burnout. Unfortunately, there is still a stigma around mental health, and many individuals may feel embarrassed or ashamed to seek help.
It was so nice to hear Mariana here. She emphasizes that seeking help is a sign of strength and courage, and that there is no shame in getting support. She suggests seeking out a therapist or coach who can help you manage stress, set boundaries, and develop coping strategies to prevent burnout.
Burnout is a significant problem for women in tech, but there are steps that can be taken to prevent and overcome it. Setting boundaries, practicing self-care, building a supportive community, and seeking professional help are all essential in maintaining physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
By implementing these strategies, women in tech can continue to thrive in their careers and contribute their unique perspectives to the industry. It’s time to recognize the importance of preventing burnout and prioritize the well-being of women in tech.
More about Mariana and Brazilians in Tech
Mariana Carvalho is a writer, career mentor, co-founder of Brazilians in Tech, and named one of the Latino 30 Under 30.
Brazilians in Tech is an organization to connect and support Brazilian women who are studying and working in technology-related fields. We offer the first Brazilian platform to bring together relevant information and opportunities from the world of Technology.
Brazilians in Tech was created to welcome and encourage women to pursue their paths in the field of Technology.
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