Burnout is at a frightening high level, here is what you need to know!
We have been dealing with a pandemic for 2 years now, of which we never anticipated it lasting this long. Now hearing it could be even longer with further restrictions coming back in the fall, at least in BC.
This has also led to a lot of uncertainty, with the rules consistently changing, and different from province to province. Whoever thought we would still be wearing masks, with some saying now here to stay. This has led to many changes as well to the workplace and many families.
Now, more uncertainty with the current war. Leaving many asking when will it all go back to normal or will it ever? Do we need to adapt to having more and more uncertainty as the norm and find ways to be more resilient?
Burn-out is described as “the effects of chronic and acute stress over long periods of time”. It manifests in a few ways, emotional exhaustion, lack of energy, cynicism or detachment.
Burnout, stress, overwhelm and anxiety are all on the rise, so you are not alone! There has been such prolonged and unrelenting pressures and currently no sign of them ending.
If you have been feeling excessively tired, drained, more easily frustrated, irritated, more defensive or fatigued these are all signs of burn-out. Other indicators can also include, disrupted sleep, desire to withdraw or change in normal habits, inability to concentrate, disrupted memory, closed thinking.
Here’s what you can do right now to battle against burn-out and overwhelm:
Firstly, recognizing the fact and then start to deal with it.
* Ask yourself what can you control with the situation?
* Create a plan with a few small steps that will support you to feel better.
* Share with someone close to you what you are experiencing.
* Remember you are not alone
* Take a break from the media, the news and social media
* Take breaks at work, go outside, get some fresh air an exercise
* Go into nature, try some yoga, practise mindfulness
* Turn your brain off with brain breaks, rest
* Be kind and compassionate with yourself and others
* Get clear on your priorities
We are all different and will all have a different plan, there isn’t a magic bullet or pill that fixes everything at once. Start taking a few small steps each day. You may find it helpful to find a buddy or a coach who you can share your journey to regaining resiliency and improved health with.
Are you interested in some accountability or learn ways to take charge of your well-being with greater ease? If so, you will want to get on my list for an upcoming workshop “Navigate Change and Uncertainty with Greater Clarity and Ease”.
