Finding balance through burnout
Living in a society that is sensitive to mental health challenges makes it glaringly obvious that the generations before us did not have the same experience. With a strong commitment to their jobs and the willingness and endurance to put in everything to reap success, burnout was not understood let alone acknowledged. It was often attributed to a strong work ethic and the demands of the job and seen as a natural part of working life.
If you navigate mental health challenges on a day-to-day basis, you were likely unable to place your feelings until mental health awareness became a prevalent topic. Maintaining your mental well-being can be tricky in the fast-paced industries in which we find ourselves.
But how can you practically nurture your well-being whilst reducing the frequency of burnout in a bustling industry? Here we unpack a few ways that could benefit you in both a professional and personal capacity.
Knowledge is key.
Knowledge is the most powerful tool with which we can equip ourselves. By understanding the delicate connection between physical and mental health, we can make informed decisions.
Learning about stress management techniques, the impact of nutrition on mental clarity, and the importance of quality sleep equips us with ways to enhance overall well-being.
Talk about it.
Like mental health, vulnerability takes a bad rap in groups of driven and high-functioning individuals. But what we forget is a problem shared is a problem halved. Many people have a story or experience to share, but do they have a platform to do so in the workplace?
Companies like Meta found it vital to create a space where it is okay to not be okay, and implemented mental health awareness programs to help reduce the stigma around these challenges. They have gone on to equip their team with accessible care whilst creating a community where open, honest conversations around mental health could happen.
Take a break. Or two…
Don’t underestimate the power of a good day off. We have found that planning out your holidays before the year is in full swing can make a world of a difference; giving you something to look forward to as the year goes by. Breaks are not just moments to step away from work; but opportunities for self-care and to do the introspective work that we are often not able to get to during busy periods.
And remember to listen to your body. Common signs that you are heading toward burnout are a combination of insomnia, procrastination, fatigue, changes in appetite and heightened anxiety.
Each person is unique but these simple suggestions can be the start that you need in discovering what works for you. But taking that first step matters, because your mental health matters.