Avoiding burnout can be as simple as being curious.

2026 is well underway and most people have already jumped off the diving board and splashed straight into the swirling ‘pool’ of organisational busyness.

The dangers of constant burnout lurk not far below the surface … the consequences can impact morale, health, engagement and performance.

We often hear ‘stop taking on so much’ and ‘take breaks to reflect more often’ … small adjustments can help but it’s a very widespread phenomenon. We’re all human and no doubt will again face unexpected pressures over the year.

So, here’s another way to help keep balanced and afloat in 2026 corporate life …

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Be Curious: learn and do new things.

Yep! That simple. Curiosity is a muscle that needs to be flexed the same as any other.

As we get older, we tend to process less new information and our perception of the world becomes more automatic. It’s easy to fall into a routine, desensitise ourselves to the external environment and absorb less information – days become a blur.

Personally, you could be curious around new hobbies, travel, or connections with people.

Professionally, it’s equally as important to apply a ‘curiosity’ lens to your work!

– Ask that ‘dumb’ question in a meeting (if you’re thinking it, chances are someone else is too)

– Enquire around what your colleague actually does (beyond their title)

– Look to understand what role you play – why are you important to the future of the business? Why does that excite you? How are you valued?

Check-in with yourself at intervals throughout the year

• Am I building a curious mindset?
• What have I learnt?
• What do I want to learn more of?
• What has given me energy?