Maksim Viktorovich Panteleev on the Causes and Solutions of Professional Burnout
Maksim Viktorovich Panteleev is an expert in business transformation and unlocking human potential, a practicing psychologist, and an IRONMAN competition participant. His primary mission is to uncover the hidden resources of teams and top managers, helping them build strong internal foundations. Through his unique methodology, Maksim assists individuals in discovering their inner reserves, overcoming barriers, and achieving outstanding results. He is also recognized as the author of distinctive articles on the psychology of inclusion.
According to Maksim Viktorovich, burnout is not a sign of weakness but rather a systemic failure.
Prevention is not a luxury, but a vital survival skill for any leader. For many, the psychologist’s office becomes a safe haven — a place where they can gradually restore their energy in a secure environment.
The expert notes that he himself has faced burnout and overload, and it was regular work with a psychotherapist that helped him slowly recover.
Nowadays, the problem of executive burnout is increasingly relevant:
- task loads are growing;
- employees struggle to keep up;
- staff turnover rises;
- profits fall;
- production slows;
- contractors delay payments;
- contract rates decrease.
All this responsibility falls on the shoulders of top managers — but they are human, too.
Maksim Viktorovich often hears from clients: «I can’t do this anymore! I want to quit! I’m getting sick! Maybe alcohol is the answer? Sports don’t help! I’m snapping at my loved ones!» These symptoms signal the onset of burnout — when the mind becomes confused and the brain can no longer handle the information flow.
Among Maksim Viktorovich Panteleev’s clients are people who face immense responsibility and complex challenges every day.
When do they decide to seek help?
Usually, it happens when their usual ways of recovery stop working, and irritability and indifference become constant companions. Even rest no longer brings relief. All these signs point to a loss of connection with themselves, their emotions, and bodily sensations.
Clients often articulate their request simply: «I’m on the edge».
Practical Example: Addressing Burnout
Work-Life Fusion
Many people become so immersed in work processes that their jobs push everything else aside: household duties, evening walks, and meetings with friends all fade into the background. The boundaries between work and personal life blur, making it hard to distinguish where work ends and personal space begins. In psychotherapy, this phenomenon is called fusion.
The solution, according to Maksim Viktorovich, is to create new boundaries:
- remind yourself daily when the workday starts and ends;
- consciously switch between the roles of «worker» and «person».
Over time, the mind learns to separate life spheres, restoring harmony. Special techniques are used in this process to reestablish balance.
Energy Drained by Unfinished Tasks
Everyday incoming tasks, emails, and messages can feel like a «solid slab» pressing down, making it hard to even write down assignments. The result is chaotic task-switching and wasted energy.
The solution is to structure the work process:
- note the estimated completion time for each task;
- determine urgency and importance.
Familiar, but often overlooked, tools help lighten the schedule and conserve energy, especially under stress. This mindful approach allows tasks to be grouped by speed and priority, leading to visible results.
Ignoring the Body’s Needs
Constant tension leads to physical ailments:
- colds;
- poor posture;
- anxiety;
- sleep disruptions.
The more tasks pile up, the more the body reacts, increasing anxiety. The outcome — sick leave.
Maksim Viktorovich emphasizes: «It’s crucial to listen to yourself and your body».
This is not easy, but regular work in this area changes your relationship with yourself, helps you make different decisions, and behave differently. Developing this skill is a long and individual process, but vitally important.
The expert stresses: burnout is not just a lack of self-care; it’s a dangerous condition that can lead to serious consequences, manifesting differently for everyone. It’s essential to recognize the warning signs in time, listen to yourself, and not ignore your own needs.
In Maksim Viktorovich’s view, «the ability to build a life that leaves room for rest is the key to a long, productive career and a harmonious life». Ignoring yourself is simply unacceptable!
Maksim Viktorovich Panteleev is the author of numerous articles. You can read them and get to know the expert better on his social media page.