How do you handle burnout? The signs and symptoms of burnout should be handled early before they become worse. You should take steps to actively reduce your stress before it becomes a bigger problem.
Burnout happens gradually. It slowly takes its toll on you over time. Are you always feeling tired? Does going to work every morning always seem like a big deal? This could be a sign that you’re on your way to burning out.
When you’re burned out, problems seem unconquerable. Everything seems out of control and handling burnout becomes a big problem. What are the positive steps you can take when dealing with overwhelming stress?
Here are tips on how to handle burnout.
1. Open Up To Others
Talk to those closest to you. It may be your partner, family or best friend. Tell them about whatever is troubling you. This could be an antidote to stress.
Focus more on the time you spend together with your loved ones. Do not think about what’s burning you out. Aim to have a good and enjoyable time.
2. Get Enough Sleep
If you’re experiencing burnout, you need to sleep enough. Your body requires good rest. Make sure that you’re having about 8 hours of sleep. That way, you will find yourself being more productive.
When you compare your productivity when you’ve had enough sleep to when you’ve slept for a few hours, it is much higher when you’ve had enough sleep.
3. Exercise
Exercise may work wonders on your body when you’re burned out. When you exercise, your body releases chemicals called endorphins which leave a positive feeling on your body.
Regular exercise has been proven to reduce stress and ward off anxiety and feelings of depression. Exercise is remarkable for your mind and body.
4. Take Time Off
Burnout is a state of physical exhaustion. You may experience burnout if you go for too long without a break.
Be it watching a movie or lounging at home, it is important to take a well-deserved break to recharge and re-energize yourself.
5. Take a Break from Technology
As much as your work may demand that you always have your phone on, you can switch it off for some time. Put away your laptop and stop checking mail for some time.
This will help you unplug and recharge. This will give you time to slow down, rest and heal.
Learn How to Say ‘No’
Most of the time, burnout comes as a result of overworking. Learn how to say ‘no’ if need be. Avoid over-extending yourself.
Burnout is an undeniable sign that you need to fix something in your life. Do not say ‘yes’ to tasks at the expense of your happiness. Put your happiness first.
Once you’ve had burnout under control, you should take preventive measures. Take on less work and make time for more sleep. Ensure that burnout does not happen again.
Check out our GBS TV blog post for more information on how to be more productive at work.