Burnout is a gradual process, it doesn’t happen overnight, but it can creep up on you. Continual exposure to stressful situations such as working long hours, constant travel and unrealistic deadlines, will effect at you eventually.
Six signs of burnout you should look out for:
- Feeling physically and emotionally depleted
- Frequent sense of isolation from family members, as well as co-workers
- Turning to alcohol, drugs, or food as a way to numb your emotional pain
- Heightened irritability and feeling extra overwhelmed by the “usual stressors”
- Falling sick more often as your immune system is down
- Experiencing panic attacks
Some tips for self-care:
Get connected
Look at ways to find connections to nature and people who energise you. Learn how to keep your body well maintained and nurtured with good nutrition and sleep. Long-term care starts with awareness. Listen more to others and to your body.
Seek out a support network
If you don’t already have a good support network, then look for one. Seek out people who are not just of similar positions with you but diversify your network.
Practise gratefulness
Gratitude journaling and gifting others is a great way to energise your soul and keep things in perspective.
Make time to give back
Find time weekly or so to engage in acts of service to others or your community.