We live in a time when we’ve never been so busy. We are expected to be able to have a full-time job, hobbies, go to the gym, keep a house organized and have a social life, all within a set few hours in the week – which is just a near-impossible task. Therefore, it’s no surprise that more of us than ever are suffering from burnout. Many of us are caving under the pressure of having to achieve everything when it feels like there just isn’t enough time to do so. If you feel that you are suffering from burnout and just aren’t happy, there are a few things you can do. It’s important to spot the signs as early as possible so you have the best chance of not suffering a break down or affecting your mental health.
Create a schedule for your week
If it feels like you are drowning in your tasks, it can be a good idea to create a schedule for your week. By having everything laid out in front of you, you can easily see what will be manageable and if you are simply taking on too much. Pencil in rough times for how long things will take, including time for travelling, resting, and getting enough sleep. Many people tend to neglect their basic needs when they are too busy, such as eating well and getting enough sleep which can make the situation worse. By allowing plenty of time to do everything, you can rejig your schedule to something healthier and see where you’re going wrong.
Always allow for down time
While we live in a time when we always feel the need to be “switched on” it’s important to schedule in some down time. Put your phone and social media away and take time to just be. Ignore the pressure that it can feel from always seeing people constantly busy on your Instagram and Twitter feeds and focus on relaxing and your own mental wellbeing. If you find you spend a lot of time working late, pencil in days when you don’t allow yourself to do this. It’s important for your physical and mental health that you take moments to switch off, do the things you love and just relax. You will be able to do better in your work and personal life when you are more balanced.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help and know your worth
Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness and as such, you shouldn’t be afraid to do so if you feel like you are drowning in life’s commitments and responsibilities. Whether you are finding it hard to have time for all your tasks at work, to sort your social life, or just in general, there will be many people happy to help. If at work your tasks are becoming unmanageable, speak to your boss or team members, they are sure to help relieve your workload. You will work much better if you are not burnt out and stressed, as opposed to trying to cram everything in when you are tired and burnt out.
The recent passing of the clean slate law also means that if you feel judged or impeded by any past minor offences, it will be automatically sealed from public records. People find that minor, non-violent cases, and mistakes that they made when younger can impact them in everyday life, yet this law helps people to feel normal, protected and as though they can live a normal life without having to work extra hard to prove their worth – thus avoiding burnout.
Make time for the things you enjoy
No matter what it is that you enjoy, make time for it every week. It could be that you love sports but have neglected yourself the chance to play. Rectify this and do as many sports as you love to do. Maybe you want time for a relaxing bath every day, or perhaps you want time to read. Never feel guilty for doing what you love. Instead, see it as a form of self-care. Things such as sports, exercise and relaxation are all good for your mental and physical health.
These are just a few ways that you can avoid burnout in your weekly schedule. It can be easy to cave under the pressures of modern-day life, but it’s important to take a step back sometimes and try not to let it affect you too negatively. By following tips such as allowing yourself time off, or down time and not being afraid to ask for help, you are on the right track to succeed and putting yourself in a much better position. Have you suffered from burnout before? What are some of the things that you did to help rectify the situation? Let us know in the comments below, we would love to hear from you.
