Burnout

I could share what I have experienced over the last year, that led me to burnout. But honestly, I think that will take away from the key point I want to make. Which is that burnout is different for everyone. Typically, we think of burnout related to our careers. Which can happen, but it is also related to our intimate relationships, parenting, friendships, family, commuting etc. Basically, anything where you are experiencing prolonged stress and it leads you to be in a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Not only is burnout different for everyone, but it may also show up differently, based on your gender. Women typically start to show signs of burn out emotionally and men physically.

Some signs of burnout:

·       Headaches

·       Irritability

·       Stomach aches

·       Tired

·       Exhausted

·       Unmotivated

·       Reduced performance

·       Avoidance

What can you do? Take a break and please do not feel guilty about it. Also, when I say break, I mean literally from it all. Ask for help from your partner, family or friends to take the kids for a night, or weekend. Take time off from work and unplug from technology. Exercise, read, write, listen to music, go to the beach, spa, nap, grab a coffee, walk, meet up with a friend, work on your garden, play your instrument, etc.

If taking a break does not work. Look at your food, exercise and sleep patterns. Or it may mean being more drastic about change. Like evaluating your career, social life, commute, and friend and family commitments.

Remember, to help and be available for others, you need to serve and nurture yourself. And anything that brings you joy, will allow you to fill your cup with positive energy. Thus leaving you feeling recharged and ready to take on the commitments in your life with a positive state of mind and body.