Burnout

Burnout can happen to the best of us at anytime. We can have seemingly boundless energy for doing anything we love but there are always limitations. At times, mental taxation can weigh more heavily on our energy and we all are living in busy and stimulating times. So how can you recognize burnout and what can be done?

Fatigue is a great indicator. What we were once enthused with doesn't interest us at the moment. That's a good sign you might be needing a break. Alongside this lack of energy and search for fulfilment, you could also find your appetite increasing and sleep decreasing. All leading to a general feeling of being out of sorts.

Some people can be energy drainers. Especially people who are demanding and don't even realize it. Certain people can be just that way. We can also overthink why we feel some people just leave us feeling dried out. Ruminating over past events and old conversations can lead us to going a bit in circles without resolve. Let go of these thoughts that simply do not serve us or really go anywhere.

Replacing or reminding ourselves that what we are thinking isn't happening now. This can save you a lot of unnecessary anxiety in the short run. Changing one nagging thought for a positive one is a learned behaviour. Keeping our concentration and focus on the present is another good thing to re-learn and remember.

If someone or something is making you feel confused, step aside or set it aside. Space yourself to see more clearly and think about your response. When we are unclear or uncertain, we make unwise decisions. Sometimes with money or with food choices. Both may not end well.

Stress, particularly at the holidays or end of year can feel like you're never going to get on top of things. There's nothing like financial pressure or health changes which we have all lived to talk about, to create a preoccupation in your life. Manage what you can give your attention to. This is a good thing to remind ourselves of. That means the disappointments that might be draining us are what we choose to react or respond to. We can change that.

So when the stresses of the season, the unreasonable and the uncertain are starting to stack up, remember your energy and focus can be placed on anything. Just be sure it is on someone or something that is deserving. We can only navigate for our own direction. Find some calm in the storm to curl up and not face the world. It will still be spinning when you're ready to venture out again. Refill your energy by drawing it in and change the lightbulbs in your own halo. The rest can and will take care of themselves.