from burnout to boundaries
You’ve burnt the candle at both ends to get a lot done in a short time.
When that happens on the reg and is layered in with work or caregiving stress, that sneaky Burnout could wrap you in its coils. Burnout is an actual medical sitch.
When you are exhausted emotionally, physically, and mentally due to relentless stress, especially at work (and that includes home, for many of us caregivers), that is due to burnout.
Commonly, peeps dealing with burnout rock feelings of cynicism, detachment, and lack of accomplishment.
On the physical side of the coin, symptoms include fatigue and insomnia. Obvi, burnout can have serious consequences for one’s well-being and work performance.
Some tools you can use: self care, boundaries, understanding yourself and your stressors, getting support, or taking breaks.
You can stave off and even prevent burnout by practicing self care–engage in what ups your physical and emotional well-being. Exercise, hobbies, and meditation are common self care activities.
Bonus points when you make the activity a regular part of your daily routine.
One weapon in your arsenal is setting boundaries. It may feel odd, but practice saying ‘no’ to non-essential tasks so you can make yourself and your personal time your top priorities.
People pleasers often struggle with this so recognizing that your well being is more important than adding even one small thing to your obligations is imperative.
Setting boundaries may feel foreign at first, but with practice, this habit helps prevent burnout and just ups your overall well-being.
Taking a candid and honest look at what stresses you out can be surprisingly helpful. Taking control to identify and evaluate the stressors puts you back in the driver’s seat.
Reach out to friends, family, or a mental health professional for help and support. Feeling emotional support as well as support for the daily mechanics of living can get you more coping strategies and help.
Let’s remember that how someone seeks support–or seeking support at all–is a personal decision that not everyone makes.
Research shows that reaching out for help can be a prime step towards recovering from the stress and the hurts slung about in this world.
Remember, healing from burnout is a process and may take time. It is important to be patient and kind to oneself. Giving yourself grace may be unfamiliar, so practice it.
Treat yourself as if you were a beloved person doing the best you can with the tools you have. Cuz that’s you, lovey.
Huggzzzz
Mel
