Burnout: When we become our own roadblock

Burnout is a word often thrown around in today's world pretty fluidly. And, depending on who you are, you may have your own definition of burnout and how far you think you need to be in order you can claim to be burned out. Despite the snowflake versus stoic argument, burnout is very real and can happen to anyone despite all their best efforts and coping strategies.

What is Burnout?

Burnout describes an extreme fatigue related to stress or burden. It can happen to anyone, with some more than others. Anyone in a prolonged stressful state are at risk of developing emotional fatigue, disassociation, and ultimately fizzle out. Ignoring the issue downplays your own personal importance.

Signs You Might Be Burned Out

So how do you know if you’re experiencing burnout? Here are some classic signs:

• Constant Fatigue: You wake up tired, and by the time you get to the coffee maker, you’re already dreaming of a nap.

• Decreased Performance: You’re so unproductive that even your procrastination techniques are starting to fail.

• Cynicism: You’ve developed a deep-seated belief that your work is completely pointless, and you’re not sure if you’re more upset about that or the fact that you’re still getting paid.

• Physical Symptoms: Stress, anxiety and depression can manifest symptoms like shortness of breath, aches, and sometimes chest pain.

• Social Withdrawal: You’d rather binge-watch a show about people who are also burned out than interact with actual humans. It's not introversion, it disassociation.

Burnout in its various forms

Burnout is not owned by any situation or occupation. No one group or person has a monopoly on stress and angst. Anyone with a high stress job such as a soldier, a healthcare provider, a police officer, an office worker, a teach, and any occupation or position that causes stress can result in a sense of burden and burnout. Passion fades, and sometimes what is left is ourselves, our thoughts, and our obligations. Life doesn't have to be grey with obligations alone defining life's worth. Inevitably those very obligations will be left behind out of self preservation. It is important for anyone experiencing burnout to consider what and how they can rise above its gravitational pull.

How to Combat Burnout

Now, let’s talk about recovery. If you’re feeling burned out, here are some humorous yet practical tips to help you bounce back:

• Take Breaks: Schedule breaks like they’re important meetings. We need time to decompress and focus on ourselves. Set a timer so that you know when to get back up and go.

• Practice Saying No: Learn the art of saying “no” like a pro. “Can you take on this extra project?” “No, thank you! I’m currently busy with my ‘not burning out’ project.”

• Unplug: Social media doesn't help as much as we think it does. Take a digital detox. Turn off your phone, close your laptop, and go outside.

• Seek Support: It's not weak. Talk to friends, family, or even a therapist. Sometimes just venting about your woes can feel like a weight lifted—like finally getting that awkward burrito out of your system.

• Rediscover Hobbies: Fond memories of hobbies or activities we used to do haven't gone away. It’s still there! Dust off your guitar, pick up that paintbrush, or finally learn how to cook something that doesn’t come in a box.

Conclusion

Burnout may feel like a never-ending cycle of despair, but it doesn’t have to be. There is help out there for the cause of your stress, but most importantly there is help for you. Seek guidance from your medical provider, reach out to support or community groups, and find that even in the ash there are always signs of life.