Can you believe that we are almost to the end of January? We all deserve something (anything!) for making it through the first month after quite arguably, the most trying year, ever. I feel like our entire world was in a constant (& likely still is) state of burnout in 2020. But as everything changes, we must adapt and be nimble, too. Which is tiring. Downright exhausting, actually. Throw in social media culture to glamorize those hard moments, in a hard year, through beautiful feeds — and you can be left wondering, “HOW do they have it all together.” Real talk: they don’t.
This year, I am being mindful of the potential of burnout and taking proactive measures to ensure I am ready for whatever 2021 has in store (please be kind, 2021)!
3 Ways to Avoid Burnout in Burnout Culture
Stay Focused
With a clear vision and plan of execution, you’ll be better able to efficiently complete task/s on your list. Sit down and PLAN everything you need to do before the week, or even before the day begins. I use a mix of written lists + digital list (via Asana) to stay on track with my daily action items. Whatever your process may be, just be intentional. Evaluate everything you’d like to accomplish — then start with items you can complete in the shortest time frame. It always helps me to accomplish something, no matter how small, so I can cross it off my list. There’s just something to momentum, that jumpstarts productivity. Enable that to propels you.
Give Grace (especially to yourself!)
I swear, I am my own worst boss. I am hard on myself, set unrealistic expectations and don’t often recognize how far I’ve come. At some point or another, enough is enough. I am learning to offer myself some grace and I will keep this in mind as we enter this extremely busy season. Even the perfect plan can have its flaws — recognizing that some things (all things really) are beyond your control is actually really healthy. Challenge yourself to focus on giving yourself (& those around you) a lot more grace this year.
Make (+ take time) to Relax
Carve out increments throughout your day to do things that bring you joy. I am aware that being overwhelmed only builds to being overwhelmed further (which usually ends with me Kim K crying to my mom on the phone haha). When I feel that build up coming, I step away and clear my mind. This commitment to incremental relaxation always resets my focus. Identify 20-30 minute tasks that make you happy and work those into your workday anyway you can!
How do you actively combat burnout? I’d love to know! Comment below if something has truly worked for you!
