Managing Your End Of Year Burnout

Burnout can come in many shapes and forms and is often hard to spot, especially in yourself. It’s the result of excessive and prolonged stress and thanks to Covid 19, 2020 has been a year to remember (and in many ways one to forget).

This year, we have experienced unprecedented stress and pressure in our home lives and in our working lives and we have had to adapt quickly to the “new normal”.  The toll of physical, emotional, mental and financial burnout can be high and it happens to the very best of us and our businesses.   

Below are 6 things you can do to better look after yourself as this rollercoaster of a year comes to an end:

In a business sense, time management is key to avoiding burnout.  Effective use of your time and focusing on the tasks at hand during allotted periods will actually provide you with more time at the end of the working week (provided you can stick relatively closely to your schedule). Allowing for interruptions and being flexible is necessary and that’s ok. 

Going for a walk will clear your head, break the routine and get you breathing in some good old-fashioned fresh air.  It may also help to provide you with a sense of community. Your daily ritual of going for a walk (brisk or leisurely) will probably coincide with someone else’s too.  Try somewhere with a view, walk along the river or the beach, through your favourite a park or grab a colleague or two and go together at lunchtime. 

The art of practicing mindfulness has a whole range of benefits particularly when it comes to avoiding burnout.  Keeping a journal, learning to meditate, yoga and showing gratitude can help to build resilience, reduce stress and you’ll notice your productivity increase as well.  

Thinking about the right nutrition during the silly season, as in eating properly and drinking in moderation can be tough at this time of year! But if you can reign it in (pardon the pun) you’ll find yourself in a clearer headspace and a more positive frame of mind. Social burnout is a thing too, it’s ok to say “no” to some social engagements if you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Getting the right amount of sleep will allow your body and mind time to heal and recharge.  Having a nightly routine and a set bedtime and waking time creates positive sleep associations and can help to reduce stress. Creating a space in your day or weekends for rest is crucial to avoiding burnout and managing stress.    

Finally, setting some realistic goals for 2021 is a great way to think about what you’d like to achieve personally and professionally.  Write your goals down, share them with your family and colleagues and encourage them to do the same.  This simple act will help you focus and set you up for success when you achieve your goals.

But most importantly, give yourself a BIG pat on the back for navigating 2020 so successfully!