3 Tips for Avoiding Burn Out

If you are not intentional about taking care of yourself, you may end up feeling burned out. Burnout can be defined as “exhaustion of physical or emotional strength or motivation, usually as a result of prolonged stress or frustration” (Merriam Webster). 

Some of the signs of burn out include: poor concentration, exhaustion, insomnia, irritability, fatigue, anxiety, depression, loss of appetite, and lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Here are some helpful tips for avoiding burn out: 

Create a work life balance. Do you spend your work day meeting deadlines and often bring work home? It’s important to create boundaries surrounding your work to minimize your stressors. The main ingredient in a healthy work-life balance is a schedule that allows you to enjoy spending time with your family, friends and loved ones, in addition to fulfilling your responsibilities. Take full advantage of vacation days, devote time to hobbies that you enjoy and make sure you spend time rejuvenating!

Seek support. It is easy to become isolated when devoting time to a demanding job or family life.  Seeking support from your family, friends or from a licensed mental health professional can help you release some of the overwhelming feelings and get appropriate feedback and advice. Sometimes even just being amongst people and enjoying a common interest can feel supportive.

Set realistic goals and avoid perfectionism. Perfectionism can lead to burn out and setting high expectations can lead to disappointment. Be realistic with setting goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely. If you are unable to meet your goals, remember to think positive thoughts and find the time to explore why you didn’t meet them. It’s common to feel discouraged and doubtful, but challenge yourself to embrace each opportunity, while remaining present and grateful. 

Life has so many stressors, so make sure you are being intentional with creating a plan to reduce the possibility of burnout.