This Magic Monday, we reflect on the importance of addressing burnout. We discuss how you can notice the signs and take steps to recover.
Taking breaks and self-care is an important part of your day-to-day. One of the reasons these rituals are important is so that we don’t reach a state of mental and physical exhaustion, also known as “burnout.”
Burnout stems from various sources but typically comes from continual exposure to a stressful situation like caring for an ill family member, overworking or witnessing upsetting news.
Depending on the circumstance, burnout may not always be avoidable, but it’s usually still recognizable. It may manifest itself quietly in the form of a slowed work pace, irritability or a general disconnectedness in meetings or conversations. Fortunately, Healthline iterates a few ways to help address burnout, whether it’s someone else’s or your own.
For someone else:
- Validate feelings and concerns – Even if you haven’t experienced it personally, know what the other person is going through is real and deeply impacts them. Let them know you see them. Take a moment to let them know how much you value their work or appreciate a recent contribution.
- Listen – Offer to be a confidant and safe space to vent, if needed – and mean it. Releasing any pent-up emotions can be a big first step in the right direction.
- Offer kind gestures – Pass along something that made you smile or something you think they’ll find interest in without expecting anything in return.
For yourself:
- Talk about it – A lot of times, it’s easy to get stuck in our own heads. Vocalizing our internal monologue can have a surprisingly therapeutic effect.
- Take breaks from your phone and the news – Not forever, of course! But the impact of consuming distressing or uncertain news consistently can lead to a feeling of helplessness over situations we can’t control. Instead, take a break and focus on what we can do.
- Ask for help – This one isn’t easy, but sometimes being honest and admitting that things are difficult can help clue others in instead of assuming “everything is fine.”
Reach out this week to someone, and ask how they are doing. If you’re struggling, reach out to a trusted individual who you know will listen. Be kind to yourself and to each other.
