Do you know the feeling of sinking into a task because it challenges you in just the right way? That's the flow state that makes us productive and satisfied. But the reality of everyday working life is often different: Your head stays empty because the work isn't challenging enough, or it threatens to explode because it just gets too much.
Why is it so important to find the fine line between under- and overload?
1️⃣ Underchallenge: an underestimated risk
It sounds harmless, but it is one of the biggest dangers in everyday working life: boredom and underchallenge (so-called boreout). Many years ago, I myself went through a phase at work when I was simply underchallenged and counted the hours and sometimes even the minutes until the working day was over. If you don't feel properly challenged, you not only run out of ideas, but also lose motivation. Interestingly, I didn't even do the few tasks that were available particularly well and felt tired and listless in the evenings.
2️⃣ Overload: when the battery no longer charges
On the other hand, being permanently overwhelmed can be just as dangerous. Stress does not necessarily arise when there is a lot to do, but above all when you have the feeling that you can't get things done. At some point, the point is reached where performance collapses. Creativity and problem-solving skills disappear because mental and emotional capacities are exhausted. Burnout is not just a buzzword, but a real danger that is affecting more and more employees.
3️⃣ The right balance: an active process
What can companies and teams do to avoid these extremes?
Regular feedback meetings: An open exchange is crucial in order to recognize early on whether someone is at risk of being under- or overworked.
Flexibility in tasks: Projects should be scalable. Those who want to grow are given more responsibility, and those who feel overloaded can reduce tasks or set other priorities.
Create clarity: Overload is often caused by a lack of clarity. If nobody knows what has priority, everything feels equally important and urgent, which leads to stress.
My conclusion: mastering the balancing act
Underchallenging and overchallenging are two sides of the same coin. The trick is to design tasks in such a way that they are challenging without being too demanding. This balance is not only important for productivity - it is also a sign of appreciation and trust. Finding the right mix of challenge and support creates an environment in which employees can grow and stay healthy at the same time.
