Boreout vs Burnout: Understanding Two Hidden Workplace Challenges

When we talk about workplace stress, burnout is usually the first word that comes to mind. But there’s another silent productivity killer that often goes unnoticed, boreout. Both can affect employee performance, engagement, and wellbeing, but they stem from very different workplace experiences.

Let’s break down the difference:

Burnout: Too Much to Handle

Burnout happens when employees are overwhelmed by excessive workloads, tight deadlines, and constant pressure.

Signs of burnout:

• Chronic fatigue and exhaustion
• Irritability and frustration
• Feeling overwhelmed and “always behind”
• Reduced performance and motivation

Causes of burnout:

• Heavy workloads
• Lack of work-life balance
• Unrealistic expectations from management
• Limited rest or recovery time

Impact on businesses:
Burnout leads to high absenteeism, employee turnover, and disengagement. Companies pay the price through reduced productivity and increased recruitment costs.

Boreout: Not Enough to Do

Boreout is the opposite of burnout. It happens when employees feel underutilised, unstimulated, and disengaged because their work doesn’t challenge or inspire them.

Signs of boreout:

• Constant boredom and lack of energy
• Feelings of meaninglessness or purposelessness
• Procrastination or avoidance of tasks
• Decreased job satisfaction

Causes of boreout:

• Repetitive, monotonous tasks
• Lack of professional growth opportunities
• No clear goals or recognition
• Skills not being fully used

Impact on businesses:
Employees experiencing boreout may still “show up” physically, but mentally they’ve checked out. This results in presenteeism (being at work but not productive), lower creativity, and higher staff turnover.

The Balance: What Leaders Can Do

Both boreout and burnout highlight the importance of balance in the workplace. Employees need meaningful, manageable workloads that challenge them without overwhelming them.

Strategies to prevent both:

• Encourage open conversations about workload and engagement
• Provide professional development and growth opportunities
• Rotate tasks to avoid monotony
• Recognise and appreciate employee contributions
• Foster a supportive culture where wellbeing is prioritised

Final Thoughts

While burnout is a fire that consumes, boreout is a slow fade into disengagement. Both are costly, for employees’ mental health and for business performance. Smart leaders recognise the signs early and create workplaces that are stimulating, supportive, and sustainable.

Because thriving employees = thriving business.