When Manager is there burnout feels more by doing the same work but when he is not there burnout is not there even by doing more work

When Manager is there burnout feels more by doing the same work but when he is not there burnout is not there even by doing more work

What are the possibile reasons for this & how this can be countered?

This situation can arise due to psychological and environmental factors rather than the actual workload. Here are possible reasons and ways to counter this issue:

Possible Reasons:

1. Micromanagement:

If the manager is constantly supervising or questioning your work, it may create pressure and stress, leading to burnout even with a normal workload.

2. Perceived Pressure:

When a manager is present, there might be a feeling of "being watched" or a need to prove yourself, which can be mentally exhausting.

3. Lack of Autonomy:

The presence of the manager might limit your decision-making freedom, making work feel more rigid and less satisfying.

4. Communication Style:

Some managers may unintentionally create a tense environment through their tone, feedback style, or lack of clarity, which adds mental strain.

5. Trust Issues:

When a manager doesn’t show trust in your abilities, it can make you overly cautious or anxious, causing burnout.

6. Focus on Results over Process:

Managers sometimes focus too much on outcomes rather than appreciating the effort or the process, making work feel unrewarding.

How to Counter This:

1. Open Communication:

Have an honest discussion with your manager about how their style of supervision impacts your productivity and well-being.

Focus on sharing constructive feedback rather than criticizing.

2. Set Boundaries and Expectations:

Clarify expectations and deadlines to avoid feeling unnecessarily pressured.

Ask for autonomy where possible to build trust and reduce micromanagement.

3. Mindset Shift:

Recognize that the pressure may be self-imposed or amplified due to assumptions about the manager's expectations.

Reframe their presence as a chance to showcase your capabilities.

4. Focus on Task Ownership:

When you take full ownership of your tasks, external oversight may feel less stressful as you know you're on top of your work.

5. Improve Manager-Employee Relationship:

Try to understand their management style and communicate your working style too. Building a good rapport reduces unnecessary stress.

6. Stress Management Techniques:

Practice mindfulness, take short breaks, and use breathing exercises when feeling overwhelmed.

Reflect on whether the manager’s presence triggers overthinking or self-doubt.

7. Seek Feedback Regularly:

Instead of waiting for unexpected scrutiny, proactively ask for feedback to ensure you’re aligned with expectations. It may reduce anxiety.

8. Team Discussions:

If others feel similarly, address the concerns collectively but respectfully, so the manager can adapt their approach.

By improving communication, setting boundaries, and fostering trust, you can reduce the sense of burnout tied to the manager’s presence.