Today we live in a fast-paced world with tight deadlines and multiple responsibilities creating a sense of overwhelming stress. We work hard and drive for success. We continue to push ourselves faster to the point of exhaustion. However, there’s a tipping point where exhaustion turns to burnout. Psychology Today defines burnout as “a state of emotional, mental, and often physical exhaustion brought on by prolonged or repeated stress.”
Burnout happens slowly overtime, often unnoticed. We start to push ourselves to get extra stuff done, gradually increasing the pressure on our accelerator. We pick up extra responsibilities at work due to cuts, there’s software changes we need to learn, a family member needs help getting to doctor appointments, driving kids to extracurriculars, home repairs, and the list continues. The next thing we know, we’ve got the accelerator pushed all the way down going 100 miles an hour. The tipping point happens when we can no longer sustain the high speed with high performance.
We need to recognize the early signs. It’s important to pause and take inventory of all the items you’re taking care of. Be honest with yourself as you examine your response to things throughout the day. Common early warning signs include:
- Chronic fatigue- exhaustion lingers
- Increased irritability- small disruptions lead to major frustrations
- Lack of motivation- tasks feel draining and pointless
- Physical symptoms- headaches, trouble eating or sleeping, digestive issues
- Isolation- withdraw from social obligations
Create a sustainable balance. Actionable strategies include:
- Prioritize self-care
- Set boundaries
- Take breaks
- Ask for help
- Reevaluate expectations
Burnout is a sign that something needs adjusted. To ease up on the accelerator, we need to work smarter and more intentionally to restore the balance. Take a deep breath, reassess, and find ways to regain control of your energy and incorporate joy into your day.
Written by: Amanda Bohlen, Family and Consumer Sciences, Washington County, Ohio State University Extension, Bohlen.19@osu.edu
Reviewed by: Megan Taylor, Family and Consumer Sciences/4-H Youth Development, Union County, Ohio State University Extension, taylor.4411@osu.edu
Photo Credits:
Pixabay