If you’re juggling a million responsibilities and finding it hard to catch a break, you’re not alone. In this fast paced world we live in stress and anxiety become the norm, so when we slip into burnout sometimes we don't even recognize the symptoms.
Understanding Burnout: It’s Not Just a Work Thing
Burnout used to be a term reserved for overworked professionals like doctors, nurses, and teachers. Today, it’s recognized as something that can affect anyone, especially those of us managing work, family, and personal commitments. Recently, I took a six-week hiatus from the podcast due to overwhelming burnout, and I suspect many of you are in a similar boat. This episode aims to raise awareness about burnout, provide a quick checklist to see if you’re experiencing it, and offer three actionable steps to help manage it.
A Glimpse Into Burnout in Action
I share my story not to compare but to connect. Each of us has different balls in the air, and while they may look different, the load often feels the same. I juggle four jobs: working at the cancer clinic, leading a grief support group, facilitating corporate workshops, and professional speaking. On top of that, I’m dealing with family health issues and caring for an aging pet. Through this, I’ve learned the hard way about the importance of self-care and setting boundaries.
Recognizing Burnout: Are You Experiencing It?
Here are five signs that might indicate you’re experiencing burnout:
Exhaustion: This isn’t just being tired; it’s a bone-deep weariness that sleep or caffeine can’t fix.
Short Fuse: Feeling constantly irritable and snapping at minor things.
Lack of Motivation: Struggling to find joy in activities that once excited you.
Overwhelm: Even small tasks feel insurmountable, leaving you paralyzed.
Brain Fog: Experiencing mental disconnection and struggling to concentrate.
If any of these resonate with you, you’re not alone. These signs often go unnoticed until we’re deep into burnout.
Three Steps to Combat Burnout
Define Your Core Values: Knowing what truly matters to you can help guide your decisions and prioritize your time. After the episode, take some time to Google core values and identify your top five.
Prioritize Self-Care: Nourish your body, mind, and soul regularly. This isn’t about occasional indulgence; it’s about consistent, basic self-care like hydration, nutritious meals, physical activity, and proper sleep.
Set Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your core values or contribute to your well-being. Delegate tasks when possible and be mindful of not overcommitting yourself.
For more detailed guidance and personal anecdotes, listen to the full episode. You’ll find practical advice that’s easy to implement, helping you cope with the chaos of midlife. And if you’re looking for a quick way to de-stress, I’ve created an eight-minute guided meditation available at bit.ly/risingstrongmeditation.
Burnout is real, but with awareness and the right strategies, you can manage it effectively. Take the first step by tuning into the Rising Strong podcast. This episode is just 18 minutes and you’ll gain valuable insights and practical tools to help you navigate midlife with less stress and more ease. Listen HERE.
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