By Gretty Collí on Monday Sept 25, 2023
Are you feeling exhausted, irritable, and unproductive lately? You might be suffering from burnout. It’s a common experience, but often goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
First things first: Understanding what Burnout is.
Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can manifest itself in various ways, such as physical and psychological symptoms. Recognizing these signs can help you take the necessary steps to prevent burnout from taking over your life. It’s essential to prioritize your mental and physical health and take breaks when needed. Remember that burnout is not a sign of weakness, and seeking help is a sign of strength. Here are 8 subtle signs that you might be overwhelmed, and some tips on how to bounce back. Don’t let burnout take over your life – take control and thrive!
One. Becoming easily distracted & forgetful.
When we are overwhelmed, our brains can become overloaded with information, making it difficult to focus on any one task for an extended period. This can lead to forgetfulness, as we struggle to remember important details and deadlines. Additionally, burnout can cause us to become easily distracted by external stimuli, such as social media or other distractions, further reducing our ability to concentrate. If you find yourself struggling to stay focused or remember important details, it may be a sign that you are experiencing burnout. It’s important to take a step back and evaluate your workload and stress levels.
Two. Becoming easily irritable or showing emotional outbursts.
Experiencing prolonged periods of stress may cause our emotions to become heightened, and we may find ourselves reacting more strongly to situations that wouldn’t usually bother us. This can lead to conflicts with others, which can further exacerbate our stress levels. It’s important to recognize when we are becoming easily irritable and take steps to manage our emotions. This might mean taking a break from work, practicing relaxation techniques, or seeking support from a therapist or counselor. By addressing our emotional dysregulation, we can prevent burnout from taking over our lives and find a greater sense of balance and fulfillment.
Three. Being physically ill more often than usual.
One of the subtle signs of burnout that people often overlook is being physically ill more often than usual. When we are overwhelmed and stressed, our immune system weakens, making us more susceptible to illnesses. If you find yourself getting sick more frequently, it’s important to listen to your body and give it the rest and nourishment it needs to recover. Ignoring these physical symptoms can lead to further burnout and a longer recovery time. So, if you find yourself constantly battling a cold or flu, it may be time to reassess your priorities and make self-care a top priority.
Four. Involuntarily detaching from activities you used to enjoy.
Another subtle sign of burnout is involuntarily detaching from activities you used to enjoy. You may find yourself losing interest in hobbies or activities that used to bring you joy. Try to make time for the activities you used to enjoy, even if it’s just for a short period of time each day. This can help you recharge and feel more fulfilled. Burnout may be the result of pushing yourself too hard for too long.
Five. Working too much without breaks.
Many people believe that working long hours without taking breaks is a sign of dedication and commitment. However, it can lead to physical and psychological exhaustion, making it difficult to focus and be productive. It can also lead to irritability, emotional outbursts, and a lack of motivation. Taking breaks throughout the day, even if it’s just a few minutes to stretch or take a walk, can help reduce stress and increase productivity.
Six. Feeling exhausted and unmotivated.
If you find yourself struggling to get out of bed in the morning or feeling like you just can’t muster up the energy to tackle your to-do list, you may be experiencing burnout. This feeling of exhaustion can be both physical and emotional, leaving you feeling drained and unable to find joy in the things you used to love. It’s important to recognize these symptoms early on and take steps to address them before they become more severe. Remember, burnout is a real and serious condition that can have long-term consequences if left untreated.
Seven. Emotional dysregulation and outbursts.
Emotions can easily get out of control, leading to angry outbursts, tears, and other intense reactions. This can be especially challenging in the workplace, where we are expected to maintain a professional demeanor at all times. However, emotional dysregulation is a natural response to burnout, and it’s important to recognize it as such. The key to managing emotional dysregulation is to be kind and compassionate with ourselves. We are only human, and it’s okay to feel overwhelmed sometimes.
Eight. Feeling a lack of fulfillment despite accomplishing tasks, feeling low self-esteem and a sense of failure.
Despite accomplishing tasks, you may still feel a lack of fulfillment, low self-esteem, and a sense of failure. These feelings are some of the subtle signs of burnout that you might be experiencing. Remember that it’s okay to take breaks and prioritize self-care. By doing so, you’ll be able to come back stronger and more motivated than ever before. Don’t let burnout hold you back from achieving your goals and living your best life.
What to do? Acting against Burnout:
If you are experiencing any of the subtle signs of burnout, it is crucial to take action before it becomes a full-blown crisis. The first step is to acknowledge that burnout is a real and serious issue that can affect anyone. Then, take a step back and assess your current situation. Are you overworking yourself? Are you neglecting your personal life and relationships? Once you have identified the root cause of your burnout, it’s time to take action. This may involve setting boundaries, delegating tasks, seeking support from colleagues or loved ones, or even taking a break from work altogether. Remember, self-care is not selfish, it’s essential. Prioritizing your well-being will not only benefit you but also those around you. By acting against burnout, you are taking control of your life and setting yourself up for long-term success and happiness.
