How to overcome Burnout when trying to live WELL 

Experiencing burnout is more serious than you may think. Usually, burnout equates with feelings of helplessness, lost hope, or resentment. Burnout is a sign of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion, often associated with and linked to immense or long-term stress. Burnout can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unable to carry on with the routines of daily life. This indicates taking a break, stepping back, observing, and evaluating to help prevent burnout.

Understanding and realizing that you are burnt out is the first step. Plus, it’s helpful to note and consider what went wrong that led you to experience burnout. Thus, learning how to respond and make changes to reduce your stress will push you in the right direction and get you back on track. If you are experiencing burnout, try these methods to help you snap back and prevent burnout.

How to prevent burnout.

Regular and frequent breaks.

Regular and frequent breaks will give your mind and body time to rest. Rest increases your health, helps you recover faster, and allows your body time to restore. Also, intentionally slowing down and allowing downtime in your day helps replenish your brain’s creativity and increases your focus.

Of course, taking breaks is temporary relief. Still, including breaks with positive daily practices can help prevent burnout.

Get more sleep.

Not getting enough sleep can hinder your ability to focus, be creative, and process information. For most adults, 7 to 9 hours of sleep each night is recommended for a good night’s rest. Sleep occurs in 4 stages- N1, N2, deep sleep, and REM sleep. The first three stages occur with Non-rapid eye movement (NREM), and the last stage occurs with Rapid eye movement (REM). Specifically, sleep is essential for energy, recovery, and promoting better health through physical and mental means.

Improving your sleep routine will make it easier to fall asleep quicker. You can do this by sticking to the same sleep schedule, even on the weekends. For example, try some of these methods to enhance the quality of your sleep:

• Choose the best bedding and mattress that is both supportive and comfortable.
• Reduce any disruptions from lights and disturbing sounds.
• Adjust the temperature, ensuring that it’s not too hot or cold.
• Put away electronics that tempt you to watch TV when you know you should be sleeping.
• Limit your overall caffeine and alcohol consumption hours before bed.

TRY a relaxing hobby or activity.

Do something that you enjoy doing. Find the time to implement that activity into your plans and schedule. Now’s the time to do something you’ve been wanting to try. Something you stopped doing a while ago, and now you want to get back into. Think about what’s most important and what brings you the most joy.

Set all the boundaries.

Setting boundaries will help you prevent burnout. This way, you can protect your time, space, and spirit. Buy yourself time and know what needs a no. Be okay with saying no or not giving an immediate yes. When someone asks, you can reply with “I am not sure about that, let me think about it” or even “I’m still thinking about it, give me a couple more days, and I will let you know then.” This will give you time to think and decide, so you will not overexert yourself.

It cancels the need to please others and helps you respond without pressure.

If you are already experiencing burnout, try to reduce it with some positive methods. Know what burnout is, understand why you are experiencing it, and learn how to prevent it. Thus, make all the necessary changes to snap back from burnout. You don’t need to suffer in silence, reach out to wise counsel whom you trust, or trusted advisors who have walked the path before you, when you need help. 

Here are some other ideas to overcome burnout.

• Do a workout
• Get outside in nature
• Go around the community and meet new people
• Hang out with friends and family
• Help and give back to others
• Implement personal days
• Journal
• Take a day of rest
• Take a short walk
• Take a vacation day or a vacation, if possible
• Take on a new skill
• Travel to a new place or setting and try something new