8 Steps to Prevent Burnout

Most of us feel burned out at some point in our very busy lives, some more than they want. It’s a challenging thing to manage, since you feel that you are burning candles at both ends, and the demands don’t seem to let up. And yet, it’s likely that you can manage what’s going on in your life.

Here are steps you can do to help ease your way through the current turmoil in your life.

8 steps to help prevent feeling burned out:

1. Eat well. It’s not uncommon to eat junk food or to eat too little when you’re super stressed. This only serves to make things worse. Make a concerted effort to eat nutritiously when life is beating you up. Also, avoid the temptation to overeat. Think of it as portion control.
2. Sleep. Stress wears out your mind and body. Give yourself the chance to sleep 7-8 eight hours each night. A good night’s sleep helps with energy and a clear head to tackle challenges head-on.
3. Control what you can. Sometimes life is hard, and there’s nothing you can do about it. If you truly can’t do anything about it, what is the value in worrying? Figure out what you can control, and give that your attention. Things you can’t control, stop worrying about them.
4. Identify what’s making you feel burned out. Is it just one thing? Or is it a lifestyle that you simply don’t feel you can maintain any longer? Maybe you’re having challenges at home, work, health issues, financially. Sit down, and take a few minutes to really figure out what is making you feel burned out. Then come up with a way to lessen the stress it is creating in your life. It might mean looking for a new job, tackling an issue at home or figuring out how to work on a health issue.
5. Stay social. It’s natural to want to isolate yourself, but that might be a mistake. Make time for those you most enjoy spending time with. It can lift your spirits, and your outlook on life. Don’t forget to laugh. We all can use a good laugh.
6. Do deep breathing at least 4 times a day. Taking 30 seconds, 4 times a day to do slow, deep breathing will help relieve stress. When you feel overwhelmed and stress is building up, do 30 seconds of slow deep breathing. It helps lower your stress, and gives you the ability to look at your challenge with fresh eyes.
7. Make relaxation part of your schedule. You plan everything else, so plan your relaxation time, too. Whatever relaxation looks like to you, plan 30 minutes every day, and give yourself something to look forward to each day.
8. Remember your past experiences. This isn’t the first time you’ve felt overwhelmed and made it through, and it won’t be your last. Use the knowledge of knowing you have in the past, and you’ll make it through this time too. There’s no reason to think you won’t.

When stress, feeling burned out start to creep in, use these steps to get your life back in balance. Don’t forget to focus on the things you can control, and let go of the rest. Take charge of your life!

Please reach out if you would like help implementing these steps, happy to help!