How To Deal With Burnout

I have faced burnout a number of times throughout the course of my business career and whilst initially I tried to hide what I was going through I realised that by doing so I was maintaining the harmful impact of tirelessly working within a capitalist system.  I made it more difficult for myself by blaming myself when in fact it was the system that was at fault and societal pressures which meant that I could not truly face what I was going through without a sense of shame. Shame because surely as an entrepreneur we should be working all the time and the hustle is worth the heartache of exhaustion. How wrong I was. 

In this video I talk about how I deal with burnout - not necessarily as a final solution but more of a guidance to help others understand what they can do to overcome it.

Dealing with burnout requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both the immediate symptoms and the underlying causes. Where possible is it vital to recognize the signs of burnout early; so when you start to feel extreme tiredness/ fatigue, no longer find joy in your work and just do not want to do anything tied to the work or activities that you used to enjoy then there is a possibility that you are burnout. Acknowledging these feelings without guilt is the first step towards dealing with it effectively and will allow you to take proactive steps to protect your well-being.

Once you've identified the signs, it's crucial to create boundaries that safeguard your mental and physical health which means learning to say no without feeling guilty and setting realistic goals that do not overwhelm you. Try to prioritize tasks that align with your values and long-term objectives, and delegate or eliminate those that do not so that you can focus your energy on what truly matters and reduce the sense of overload.

Incorporating self-care practices into your daily routine is vital. Regular exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep are so important - but remember to find activities that are authentic to you. I do not enjoy going to the gym and it would become a burden to me but I do enjoy walking, particularly in green spaces so finding time to take long walks helps. If you find spiritual practices work then also try praying, meditation, journaling, or even taking short breaks throughout the day to help manage stress levels. Surround yourself with a supportive network of friends, family, or colleagues who understand and respect your need for balance. Talking about your feelings with someone you trust can provide immense relief and perspective.

Never underestimate the power of professional help. Sometimes burnout requires more than just self-help strategies; it might necessitate guidance from a mental health professional. Therapists and counsellors can provide tailored strategies to manage stress and rebuild resilience when it comes to handling burnout. Remember, seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By addressing burnout head on you can come out on the other side more fulfilled and with more balance so that you reclaim a sense of joy and fulfillment in your personal and professional life.