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5 Signs You're Burnt Out and How to Fix It

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive stress and an inability to cope with it.

By Top 5 FactsPublished 3 years ago 4 min read
5 Signs You're Burnt Out and How to Fix It
Photo by Jacqueline Day on Unsplash

#1 Feeling disconnected

If you find yourself going through the motions of everyday life like an autopilot, experiencing emotional numbness, and detachment from yourself, it might be depersonalization, a common symptom of burnout.

To address the feeling of disconnection and depersonalization associated with burnout, it is crucial to prioritize self-care and well-being. Start by taking regular breaks to rest and recharge, allowing yourself time to engage in activities that bring joy and fulfillment. Practice mindfulness and meditation to reconnect with your emotions and thoughts. Seek support from friends, family, or a mental health professional to talk about your feelings and experiences, as sharing can be cathartic and help you regain a sense of connection. Taking proactive steps to address burnout will gradually help you regain a sense of self and reduce the emotional numbness, leading to improved well-being and overall life satisfaction.

By Lechon Kirb on Unsplash

#2 Loss of motivation

While laziness tends to be a stable trait, burnout can manifest in a sudden lack of motivation and enthusiasm, especially if you were previously self-motivated and high-achieving.

To address the loss of motivation associated with burnout, it's important to engage in activities that reignite your passion and interest. Start by setting small, achievable goals to regain a sense of accomplishment and build momentum. Break tasks into manageable steps to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Seek out new challenges or learning opportunities that align with your interests and values. Additionally, consider discussing your feelings with a trusted friend, family member, or a professional counselor to gain fresh perspectives and support.

By Sander Sammy on Unsplash

#3 Loss of passion

Burnout can diminish your interest and enjoyment in activities or hobbies that you were once passionate about. The individual facing burnout once had things they were deeply passionate about but now finds it challenging to muster interest or enjoyment in these activities. Whether it involves talents, sports, academic pursuits, or professional performance in general, burnout can severely hinder one's ability to engage in activities they once loved. The overwhelming workload and pressure may lead to feelings of resentment and even hatred towards these activities.

To address the issue of loss of passion, it's essential to engage in a process of self-discovery and rejuvenation. Start by taking a break from activities that no longer spark joy and give yourself permission to explore new interests and hobbies. Experiment with different activities and experiences to see what resonates with you on a deeper level. It might be helpful to reconnect with old hobbies or interests that once brought excitement and fulfillment. Surround yourself with supportive and like-minded individuals who can inspire and motivate you. Additionally, seek inspiration from books, podcasts, or workshops related to your areas of interest. Embracing a growth mindset and being open to change can help you rediscover your passion and purpose in life.

By Caleb Woods on Unsplash

#4 Moodiness and irritability

If you find it challenging to manage your emotions, particularly when it was never an issue before, this could be a sign of burnout. In contrast, lazy individuals typically exhibit a different demeanor, being more relaxed, laid-back, placid, and less affected by external factors.

To address moodiness and irritability caused by burnout, it's crucial to prioritize stress reduction and emotional well-being. Begin by identifying the sources of stress in your life and take steps to minimize them. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga to calm your mind and manage emotions. Engage in regular physical activity, as exercise can have positive effects on mood and reduce stress. Ensure you are getting enough restful sleep each night to promote emotional stability. By taking proactive steps to reduce stress and care for your emotional health, you can gradually alleviate moodiness and irritability, leading to a more balanced and harmonious state of mind.

By Christin Hume on Unsplash

#5 Neglecting self-care

Some symptoms include changes in your eating and sleeping patterns and neglecting grooming and personal appearance, or spending a significant amount of time alone without engaging in any activities. These symptoms arise due to feeling easily exhausted by even the simplest tasks. The key distinction between burnout and laziness lies in the fact that you weren't always like this, indicating that burnout is a recent state of being that requires attention and care to address properly.

To address the issue of neglecting self-care, it's essential to prioritize and reestablish a routine that promotes overall well-being. Start by setting aside dedicated time for self-care activities, such as exercise, relaxation, or engaging in hobbies that bring joy. Incorporate healthy eating habits and ensure you are getting enough restorative sleep each night. Avoid overloading yourself with excessive responsibilities and learn to set boundaries, saying no when necessary to prevent burnout. Seek social connections and spend time with supportive friends or family members who can provide emotional comfort and understanding. Consider implementing mindfulness and meditation practices to stay present and reduce stress. Remember that self-care is not selfish; it's a vital aspect of maintaining mental and physical health, enabling you to better cope with life's challenges and responsibilities. Prioritizing self-care will lead to increased resilience, improved mood, and a greater sense of overall well-being.

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