Burning out happens to everyone, and it drains you both physically and emotionally. Sometimes you're so ready to quit that you're never happy anymore. How should you handle burning out, and what are the common symptoms to look for?
Burning out happens in all categories of life: social, professional, academic, and even family. Friends tire you out with their repetitive antics, overworking yourself or sticking to a nonstop routine erodes your patience and enthusiasm, constantly studying or preparing for exams loads constant stress into your system, and the occasional (or non-occasional) family drama is the cherry on top of all your life problems? How do you find balance and equilibrium in an infinitely fluctuating cycle?
1) Consider dropping an obligation if you have the opportunity to do so.
Stacking too many obligations into your week may make you seem efficient and productive, but keeping up with such a rigorous schedule takes its toll quickly as the weeks continue to roll.
2) Schedule regular breaks and vacations for yourself.
In order to maintain some sort of sanity in your life, you need to get away from the things that stress you out. Taking breaks and vacations is a good way of doing so. You may beat yourself up for being "lazy" or "unproductive," but taking your mind completely off of the demands of normal life is the best way to reset and regenerate your energy.
3) Diversify your interests.
Having a set routine can create boredom and complacency. To avoid this, try diversifying your interests. Read books, watch videos, take weekend rock climbing adventures with friends, or do anything that gets you out of your normal sphere and into a new mindset. Trying new things and discovering awesome hobbies is the best way to tackle the monotony of a routine.
4) Spend some quality time alone.
Alone time is one of the best gifts you could give yourself in the week. It's an opportunity to get away from the people you see regularly, be selfish, and pursue some of your own interests or hobbies that you wouldn't have time for if you were spending time with other people. Sometimes nothing beats watching Netflix on the couch while eating takeout food from your favorite restaurant for dinner.
5) Don't be afraid to take naps and get plenty of sleep.
Not sleeping makes you slower, more irritated, and weaker as the day goes on. If you have a busy schedule, try to find time for short naps, or try to go to sleep early in the evening to make sure you will wake up refreshed and ready for work the next day. Sleeping more also benefits growth, memory, learning, and stress management.
