The Runway to Burnout (and how to turn it around!)
Burnout. We use this word a lot - I’m so burned out right now - and it’s become almost synonymous with stress. But is it the same?
No. Burnout is its own category, marked by different symptoms and signs and is on a whole other level. If you have experienced true burnout, you know this. Burnout is serious and can take weeks, months or even years to recover from.
But here’s the good news. Just like we talked about how good change takes time, there is a road to burnout. And by recognizing which stage you’re at, you can take steps to get off this road before it gets too bumpy.
So, let’s dive in.
Stage One: The Honeymoon Phase
Think back to when you started something new – a new job, a new project, or even a new hobby. There’s that rush of excitement, right? Everything feels fresh, and you’re filled with enthusiasm.
This is the “Honeymoon Phase”.
Even if there are tiny hints of stress, they’re barely noticeable because you’re still riding that wave of positivity. You feel confident that you can handle whatever comes your way. Your coping mechanisms are strong, and you're managing to keep that pep in your step.
Stage Two: The Onset of Stress
Next, we move into “Stage Two: The Onset of Stress.” The honeymoon is over, and reality starts to settle in. You will start to notice the stress more acutely. It’s less of an “exciting challenge” and more of an “actual problem”.
Maybe you're feeling more irritable, your sleep is getting disrupted, and your productivity is dipping. Physically, some people start experiencing physical symptoms like headaches or increased blood pressure.
But hey, don't worry – we all dip in and out of it from time to time. And that’s the important thing: at this stage, that stress will make up a portion of your time. It’s more like an annoying visitor.
Stage Three: Chronic Stress
Remember that annoying visitor? This isn’t a passing phrase anymore. Your stress has become an unwanted tenant and constant companion. You're feeling stressed almost all the time, and those earlier symptoms are now more intense.
You’ll notice stress disrupting various areas of your life. You’ll miss deadlines, and procrastination will become a regular habit. You might find yourself reaching for coping mechanisms like shopping or drinking just to get through the day.
It’s a rough patch where everything feels a bit too much.
Stage Four: Burnout
Now we get to burnout. The weight of it all feels almost unbearable.
Every symptom from before is cranked up. You might feel numb, obsessing over problems, and incredibly pessimistic. Social isolation becomes your norm, and physical symptoms like chronic digestive issues might arise.
At this point, it’s easier to ignore your needs than face them, which leads to even more problems. It’s a tough spot, and it’s where seeking professional help becomes crucial.
Stage Five: Full Burnout
Lastly, we reach Stage Five: Full Burnout. This is the full-blown experience of burnout – chronic sadness, depression, overwhelming fatigue, and even mental and physical illnesses.
Every day feels like a struggle, and those red flags of depression are glaringly apparent. This stage isn’t something you can just bounce back from; it’s sustained and deeply impactful.
Professional intervention is essential here to help navigate through it and find a way back to wellness.
Turning It Around
But here’s the good news – you can turn things around before it gets serious.
How? Here are some suggestions.
Mindfulness and Awareness
Pay attention to your body and mind. Are you feeling more tired than usual? More irritable? These can be early signs that you need to take a step back.
Self-Care Practices
Keep up with the things that make you feel good. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, or just a hobby you love, make time for the simple pleasures and passions that make you smile.
Set Boundaries
Learn to say no. It's okay to scale back and prioritize your own well-being over trying to please everyone else.
Community and Support
Talk to others. Share your experiences. You might find that many people have felt or are feeling the same way, and you can support each other through it.
Professional Help
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. They can offer strategies and support to help you navigate through tough times.
Where I can help
As someone who has experienced and recovered from burnout, I know how easy it is to put our own needs on the back burner. As a regulated health professional, I understand the body’s systems, how stress impacts them and what they need for recovery.
As someone who cares deeply and wants to see women succeed, I want to help.
So, if you need help getting off the road to burnout, I can help you. My Energized Mom Method program has helped women listen to their bodies and build a sustainable plan to prioritize their own health.
If you are dealing with health issues arising from chronic stress, it can be hard to implement your medical team’s suggestions. Having someone to cheer you on and hold you accountable, who also understands the medical side of it, can really make a difference.
If you’re ready to make a change but don’t know where to start, book a complimentary breakthrough session by clicking this link.
