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Are you a go-getter? A high-achiever? A mover and a shaker? If so, chances are you’ve experienced the troubling effects of burnout. The unexplainable illnesses, frustrating bouts of forgetfulness, and insomnia that won’t stop are just a few of the many signs of burnout.
Unfortunately, many entrepreneurs and elite professionals suffer from burnout. In fact, it’s become so common that it’s often swept under the rug and ignored until it reels its ugly head. We’ve all seen it before. The high-achiever who always says “I can do everything” or “I don’t need help”. Then one day, the long hours and heavy workloads actually gets to them and they throw in the towel.
If you’re a go-getter who’s currently experiencing burnout or you feel like you’re on the road to burnout, then this article is for YOU!
What is Burnout?
Burnout is defined as “exhaustion of physical or emotional strength or motivation usually as a result of
prolonged stress or frustration”. In other words, it’s the result of doing too much, too fast, and for too long. It looks like the Director who bounces from meeting to meeting from 7:00am – 6:00pm, Monday- Friday. It looks like the mom nurturing her crying baby while managing her business online. Burnout looks like the person you had a meeting with who you asked, “how are things going?” and they replied “busy”.
This is burnout and it’s affecting almost everyone, but the question is, “why?”.
How Does Burnout Occur?
Today, burnout is a result of poor work/life balance. We’re always connected to everyone and everything, so it’s difficult to just sit still and be. The technology that has made it possible for us to do amazing things has also resulted in us constantly working. We’ve created an environment where we work through our lunch breaks, in the evenings, on the weekends, and even DURING vacations.
Back in the day, this was completely unheard of! There was a peace available in the past that seems so far fetched now. The ability to come home after work and be uninterrupted regarding work matters until you returned the next day – that was peace.
Burnout is a result of no peace.
7 Ways To Avoid Burnout
Fortunately, there are ways to avoid and reverse burnout. It’s not something you have to just deal with, but it’s going to take a little work. However, putting in the work is worth it because you are worth it. Consider these 7 ways to avoid burnout.
Schedule Free Time
Just like you pencil in that meeting at 1:00pm, you should also strive to create a block of time where you are uninterrupted. Have it be 30 minutes or 10 minutes, allow yourself the ability to get recharged. You’ll return back to your task with fresh ideas and inspiration.
Start Saying No And Don’t Feel Bad About It
Nobody knows your breaking point but you, so it’s your responsibility to protect your time and your energy. When you’re a go-getter, it’s very easy to say “yes” to practically everything that comes along. However, making too many commitments will only result in more mistakes, more frustration, and a higher probability of burn-out. If you have too much on your plate already, politely decline and move on.
Travel Sometimes
If you have the means to give yourself a change in scenery, then take it. For those who work virtually, take advantage of your ability to work from anywhere in the world. It’s amazing how a change of environment can spark your creativity. In addition, traveling is one the top ways to prevent burnout, so now you have an excuse ๐
Naps Are Life
As children, we tried to avoid taking a nap like the plague, but as adults, taking a nap is life. Sometimes sleeping for 30 minutes is just what we need to get through the day.
Have A Social Life
Hang out with friends for lunch dates, movies, board games, or mini-vacays. Sometimes we get so
caught up in the day-to-day that we forget how important it is to have a social life. It’s important that your social life expands outside of just your work pals, significant other, and clients. Mix it up sometimes and you won’t regret it!
Also, check out groups in your area to meet new people. For women, Metro Detroit has the following organizations:
- Boss Ladies Referral Crew
- She Blossom’s
- Mention others in the comments please!!
Yoga Is Good For the Mind, Body, and Soul
The unique practice of yoga not only makes you more flexible, but it also makes you feel energized and focused. The breathing exercises help to relax a racing mind and increases bodily awareness. Consider doing yoga in the morning or evening to help alleviate or cope with burnout.
Start Your Morning Right
How you begin your morning will the set tone for the entire day. If you wake up and immediately go to social media, you’ll start comparing yourself to others. You also risk seeing a sad news story which can put a damper on your day.
In addition, avoid checking your email first thing in the morning. You should never start your day learning about what people need from you. It’ll make it difficult to focus on anything else before you even officially start your workday.
Get Help
For the go-getters who believe that they can and should do it all, you’ll eventually understand that asking for help is okay. Make a list of everything that you don’t like to do or need to do and outsource it to someone else. Your mind and body will thank you.
Tell Us How YOU Avoid Burnout
Now that we’ve shared our 7 ways to avoid burnout, tell us in the comments how you avoid burnout in your life.
Ready To Delegate
If you’re interested in outsourcing but not sure where to start, book a free consultation with Jessica to learn what solutions she has for you.
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