Beyond Burnout: Practical Steps to Avoid and Recover from Exhaustion
Burnout is something I've experienced firsthand. It's a state of feeling completely exhausted, both physically and mentally, due to prolonged stress. And it's not just about being tired - it can impact your whole life, from your job to your relationships to your health.
When I was going through burnout, I found myself struggling to keep up with work, feeling like I was never doing enough, and constantly worrying about what I needed to do next. I was exhausted all the time, but even when I tried to relax, my mind wouldn't stop racing.
But I was able to overcome burnout by taking some practical steps to prioritize my wellbeing:
Practicing self-care: This meant making time for things like exercise, meditation, and spending time with loved ones. It was important to find activities that truly helped me relax and recharge.
Setting boundaries: I had to learn how to say no and establish clear boundaries between work and personal time. This meant turning off my phone and not checking work email during my time off.
Create a structured routine: Establish a daily routine that includes regular breaks and scheduled downtime. This will help you stay organised, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.
Use time-management techniques: Use tools like calendars, timers, and to-do lists to help you stay on track and manage your time effectively. This will help you avoid overloading yourself and prevent burnout. Our tip: The Pomodoro Technique
Seeking support: Talking to friends, family, or a therapist helped me feel less alone and provided a space to process my feelings.
Taking time off: Sometimes, the only way to recover from burnout is to take time away from work to rest and recharge.
Reassessing priorities: It was important for me to reevaluate my goals and make sure they aligned with my values. This meant saying no to projects that weren't important to me and focusing on the ones that were.
These steps were crucial in helping me recover from burnout and regain my sense of balance. And if you're going through burnout, know that you're not alone. It's okay to ask for help and prioritize your wellbeing. You deserve it.
If you're looking for additional support, here are some helpful resources:
"Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle" by Emily Nagoski and Amelia Nagoski.
"The Burnout Fix" podcast by Jacinta McDonnell.
"How to Overcome Burnout and Stay Motivated" TED Talk by Dr. Sharon Melnick
Remember, burnout is tough, but it's not impossible to overcome. Prioritize your wellbeing and take it one step at a time. You got this.
