Last updated on Jul 5, 2024

Here's how you can find support and resources to overcome burnout as an airport manager.

Managing an airport is a demanding role that requires constant vigilance and decision-making, often leading to burnout. Burnout can manifest as exhaustion, cynicism, and a feeling of reduced professional efficacy. As an airport manager, recognizing the signs of burnout is crucial for taking proactive steps to address it. This article will explore various support systems and resources that can help you regain balance and continue to perform at your best.

1 Peer Networks

Engaging with peer networks can be a powerful way to combat burnout. By connecting with other airport managers who face similar challenges, you can share experiences, offer mutual support, and exchange coping strategies. Whether through professional associations or informal meet-ups, these networks provide a platform for discussing issues that may be contributing to your stress levels. Remember, you're not alone in this; many of your peers are likely navigating the same turbulent skies of airport management.

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Demetrius Alexander

Experienced Global Transportation Operations Manager | Driving Excellence in Transit Systems | Expertise in Safety Compliance & Quality Assurance | Motivated Training Manager and Adult Learning Instructor
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Collaborating with peers allows for the sharing of resources, such as tools, templates, and contacts, which can streamline tasks and reduce the time spent on problem-solving. You might have a better process or idea than another airport manager, and vice versa, while all working at the same airport. Sometimes reaching out or networking with like-minded individuals performing the same tasks could give better insight on how to accomplish tasks a bit more efficiently, thus negating burnout.

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Hlaine Myat Nandy

Airport Strategy and Commercial Manager at Yangon Aerodrome Co., Ltd, Yangon International Airport
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Seek support and resources proactively. Connect with industry peers through professional networks or associations like ACI (Airports Council International) for shared experiences and advice. Engage in mentorship programs to gain guidance and fresh perspectives. Utilize organizational resources such as employee assistance programs for counseling or stress management workshops. Delegate tasks effectively to lighten workload and prioritize self-care with regular breaks, exercise, and hobbies. Foster a supportive work environment by encouraging open communication and teamwork. By accessing these resources and implementing self-care practices, you can effectively manage burnout and sustain long-term productivity and well-being.

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2 Professional Help

Sometimes, the weight of burnout requires professional intervention. Do not hesitate to seek the services of a psychologist or counselor who specializes in occupational stress. These professionals can offer personalized strategies to manage burnout, including stress management techniques and cognitive-behavioral approaches. It's a sign of strength to acknowledge when you need help, and taking this step can lead to significant improvements in your mental health and job performance.

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3 Time Management

Effective time management is a key skill in preventing and overcoming burnout. Reassess your daily tasks and prioritize them to ensure that critical operations are addressed without overextending yourself. Utilizing time management tools or techniques, such as the Eisenhower Matrix, which helps you categorize tasks by urgency and importance, can help you stay organized and reduce stress. Allocating time for breaks and self-care is equally important to maintain a sustainable work-life balance.

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Demetrius Alexander

Experienced Global Transportation Operations Manager | Driving Excellence in Transit Systems | Expertise in Safety Compliance & Quality Assurance | Motivated Training Manager and Adult Learning Instructor
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Monitor and adjust your everyday time management strategies and adjust them as needed. Reflect on what works and what doesn’t, and be willing to make changes to improve your efficiency. In transportation environments no two days are alike, regardless of the vehicle used. It's imperative that airport managers understand this in order to adjust properly. Otherwise the "worst day ever" can repeat itself multiple times in a work week.

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4 Training Opportunities

Investing in your professional development through training can also serve as an antidote to burnout. Learning new skills or deepening your understanding of certain aspects of airport management can reignite your passion for your job and provide a sense of progress and achievement. Look for workshops, seminars, or online courses that align with your interests and professional goals. Continuous learning is not only beneficial for your career but also for your mental well-being.

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Demetrius Alexander

Experienced Global Transportation Operations Manager | Driving Excellence in Transit Systems | Expertise in Safety Compliance & Quality Assurance | Motivated Training Manager and Adult Learning Instructor
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Let's not forget that training programs and professional development shouldn't always be technical learning. Soft skills matter also. Try to include trainings on stress management and resilience. Learning techniques such as mindfulness, time management, and relaxation exercises can help managers cope with the high-pressure environment of airport management. Mental breaks are warranted, especially when you're dealing with the lives of human beings.

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5 Organizational Support

Don't overlook the support that your organization can offer. Many airports have human resources policies in place to support staff well-being, including employee assistance programs (EAPs). These programs often provide confidential counseling services, stress management resources, and other tools to help you cope with job-related pressures. Engage with your HR department to learn what resources are available to you and how you can access them.

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6 Self-Care Strategies

Lastly, incorporating self-care into your daily routine is vital in managing burnout. This can include regular exercise, a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and hobbies that detach you from work-related thoughts. Self-care is not indulgence; it's a necessary practice that helps you maintain the stamina required for high-pressure roles like airport management. By taking care of your physical and emotional health, you'll be better equipped to handle the demands of your position.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can find support and resources to overcome burnout as an airport manager.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Peer Networks

2 Professional Help

3 Time Management

4 Training Opportunities

5 Organizational Support

6 Self-Care Strategies

7 Here’s what else to consider

Airport Management

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Here's how you can find support and resources to overcome burnout as an airport manager.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Peer Networks

2 Professional Help

3 Time Management

4 Training Opportunities

5 Organizational Support

6 Self-Care Strategies

7 Here’s what else to consider

Airport Management

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