Do You Have Burnout & What Can You Do?

I did some research because let's be honest, there are times when we all might feel a little like we are going crazy. Are we depressed? Do we need to quit and start over on a new planet?

There are some things that we can look at and questions we can start to ask to initiate some self reflection.

WORKLOAD

What is your current workload? Is it doable? Can you actually get this done? Are the expectations too high? What are you trying to prove? This isn't just always about working outside of the home. This could be Did you sign your kids up for too many activities? Do you need to hire a housekeeper? Do you need to ask your partner for help? Is it time for the kids to start doing some extra chores.

CONTROL

What is your perception of control? Is someone hovering over you or do you have control over what you are doing? Do you have freedom of independence? If you are feeling "trapped" in your situation or you feel like you don't have any control over what you are doing, it may be time to find some control, communicate your expectations and set some boundaries. BUT in order to make it work you have to LIVE your boundaries. Talking about them is not enough. Set some hard lines in the sand. Don't answer the emails after a certain time, let the calls go to voicemail and notify others of your availability. This works just the same in business as it does at home. Without boundaries any relationship is bound to fail.

REWARD

Do you feel rewarded from what you are currently doing? What's the pay off for you? Is there a way to decrease your obligations or your workload? Go back to number 1 and look at the opportunities to outsource. Create spaces in your day for downtime. Communicate what it is that you need to feel valued.

COMMUNITY

Do you have community and what does your ideal community look like? If the answer is no then can you contribute to creating it? Is the work you're doing so rewarding that it is acceptable NOT to have community and if so can you find it elsewhere? Is there a book club you can join or create? Is there a group of professionals or parents that align with your values?

FAIRNESS

Do you feel like you are being treated fairly? Obviously if you're in the workplace and you are genuinely feeling like there are major inequities go to HR! That's what they are there for! BUT you need to be able to advocate for yourself in ANY situation. Don't be afraid to ask for what you need.

VALUES

Does the work that you are doing align with the things that are important to you? Do your values align? I mean listen, no relationship will ever align perfectly but we need to be hitting the top 5-7 values somewhere in the same ballpark. If not, you may need to ask yourself if this is an organization or relationship that you are comfortable with long term.

Introspection is hard and it gets even harder when there is livelihood on the line. Take the time to ask yourself these questions. There is always the possibility that communicating differently with your boss or your partner can help result in finding some answers and keep you from sinking into the cycle of burn out and depression.

What to hear more about Burnout? Follow our podcast on IG @selfcareprojectpodcast or listen at:

The Self Care Project Podcast