Burnout is a common problem that many people face in their personal and professional lives. I’m no stranger to burnout, especially after 16 years of writing about technology.
For writers, burnout is a serious problem. When your artistic juices aren’t flowing freely, you’re not producing your best work. Pushing through the muck to create something to meet a deadline only works for feed the problem.
Burnout can be caused by various factors such as overwork, stress, lack of sleep, and even personal issues. I have experienced burnout several times in my life, and I have found some effective ways to deal with it. Here are some of the strategies that have worked for me:
One of the most effective ways to deal with burnout is to take a break. When you are burnt out, it is important to step away from the situation that is causing you stress and take some time to relax and recharge.
This could mean taking a day off work, going on a vacation, or simply taking a few hours to do something you enjoy. Taking a break can help you gain perspective and clarity, as well as reduce stress and anxiety.
One of my favorite things to do when I need a break is visit a local store and look around. Sometimes, just seeing different products or being around other people is enough to snap me out of my slump.
Another way to deal with burnout is to practice self-care. This means taking care of yourself physically, emotionally, and mentally. Some examples of self-care activities include exercising, eating healthy, getting enough sleep, meditating, and spending time with loved ones.
Self-care is important because it helps you to be more resilient in the face of stress and burnout. When you take care of yourself, you are better able to cope with the challenges of life.
Out of all the suggestions in this list, self-care is the one I struggle with the most. Exercise isn’t a pleasure driver for me, though when I do manage to put some effort in, the dopamine high is well worth it.
Setting boundaries is another important strategy for dealing with burnout. This means learning to say no to things that are causing you stress or taking up too much of your time. It is also important to set boundaries around your work and personal life to ensure that you are giving yourself enough time to rest and recharge. Setting boundaries can help you to prioritize your time and energy, and prevent burnout from happening in the first place.
This is especially true for us remote workers because it’s extremely easy for work to creep into your personal life when you live in your office. Set a schedule and stick to it. You should only be expected to put the hours in that are necessary to get the job done. If work is overtaxing your normal work schedule, it’s time to raise your concerns with your manager.
Lastly, it is important to seek support when dealing with burnout. This could mean talking to a trusted friend or family member, seeing a therapist or counselor, or joining a support group. Having a support system can be incredibly helpful when dealing with burnout, as it can provide you with the emotional and practical support you need to get through this challenging time. Support can also help you to feel less isolated and alone, and provide you with a sense of community.
For remote workers, this is exceedingly difficult. Your friends aren’t at the office anymore. The distance creates a barrier, but you can overcome it by making the effort to reach out.
Try scheduling regular lunch meet-ups with your friends. If you make communication part of your regular routine, it will be easier to maintain in the long run.