Burnout - tips

Burnout is a serious condition which has built up over time and is caused by ongoing stress. This may be stress from work or family or financial or a combination of a number of chronic stressors. It needs time for you to heal from.

Best thing to do is to take time off and rest. Reflect on the things that are important and what you can let go of.

Life is all about balance.
You don't always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it's perfectly okay, and absolutely necessary, to shut down, kick back, and do nothing.
(Lori Deschene)

Everyday take time to wash away the accumulation of your inner self talk and the energies you have picked up from other people.

This simple but effective exercise you can easily add to your daily routine.

Every time you shower close your eyes. Imagine that the water is washing away your stress and anxiety, imagine the water is a grey sludge running off your body and down the drain.
Say in your mind as you are visualising I let go of everything not for my highest good.

Are your experiencing stress and could you use some support?
A therapist or counsellor can help you.

Burnout often leads to harsh self-criticism and feelings of inadequacy. Prioritise self-compassion by acknowledging your hard work and the challenges you face. Understand that it's okay to have limits and that needing a break doesn't equate to failure. Practice self-kindness through daily affirmations, mindfulness exercises, or simply allowing yourself to rest without guilt. Remember, treating yourself with the same kindness you would offer a friend can significantly reduce the impact of burnout.

Incorporate small, compassionate habits into your daily routine. This could be as simple as taking a few minutes each day for deep breathing, enjoying a hobby, or indulging in a comforting activity. These moments of self-care can help recharge your emotional batteries, making it easier to cope with stress.

Lastly, remember that self-compassion is a journey. It takes time to shift from self-criticism to self-kindness. Celebrate small victories along the way, and give yourself grace during setbacks. Over time, this practice can build resilience against burnout.

One key to preventing and overcoming burnout is setting realistic boundaries in both personal and professional life. Identify the areas where you feel overextended and make a conscious effort to establish limits. This might mean saying no to extra responsibilities, setting specific work hours, or delegating tasks when possible.

Communicate your boundaries clearly to those around you. Let colleagues, friends, and family know when you are available and when you need time for yourself. It's important to be firm yet kind in your communication, ensuring others understand your needs without feeling alienated.

Remember that setting boundaries is an ongoing process. Regularly reassess your commitments and adjust your boundaries as needed to maintain a healthy balance. By protecting your time and energy, you create space for rest, recovery, and activities that rejuvenate you, helping to mitigate burnout in the long run.