The reality is that our new normal these days will always feel a little off balance, like trying to stand in a raft on rough seas and not knowing when the storm will pass. Because of this, now we must give ourselves permission and grace to rest and recover. To do the opposite of what we’ve been told.
Burnout is real, especially for those of us who tend to put a lot of pressure on ourselves. It can manifest in many ways, from feeling exhausted or overwhelmed by our workloads to struggling with self-doubt or depression. These feelings are normal and valid – you don’t have to push through them!
Understanding when it’s ok – even essential – to relax instead of constantly pushing ourselves too hard is critical to avoiding burnout. (As I continue to learn myself! 😬 LOL!)
Accepting that you’re feeling burned out and lacking motivation is vital. Acceptance doesn’t mean giving up. It means not resisting or fighting reality so you can apply your energy elsewhere. It allows you to step into a more spacious mental state to do things that are constructive instead of being stuck in a state of psychological self-torment.
My latest experience with mild burnout has taught me that I can feel like doing nothing while embracing the frustration that I’m feeling at that moment, and then the next day, do something with an element of achievement. I eased back by prioritizing self-care activities such as doubling down on my meditation practice, running, and eating a healthy breakfast. I approached the day’s to-do list, intending to only do the essential items on it and then finishing early with more of my favorite self-care/rest and recovery practices.
I’m proud to say that I’m giving myself grace and time to rest and recover when needed. To work on my sea legs while standing on this boat in our new normal of not knowing when the storm will pass. How about you? Are you able to hit pause instead of pushing through?