Have you been getting worn down lately? If you’ve been feeling overly tired, lacking in motivation and generally ill-at-ease, it could be the early signs of work burnout. In today’s career-focused world, it can feel impossible to take a step back from your job, even after you leave the office for the day. But if you don’t take care of yourself, burnout can lead to poor job performance and a lower quality of life.
If you think you could be burnt out, or even headed in that direction, don’t worry. There are plenty of small changes you can make to help keep symptoms at bay. Read on for five tips that will keep you feeling healthy, rested and ready to face whatever your job sends your way.
Get active. One of the simplest ways to combat burnout is exercise. Sure, it can feel like you don’t have time to go to the gym at the end of a long day, but start small. There are plenty of ways you can incorporate fitness in your day-to-day routine. Make a commitment to yourself to take the stairs for a week, to stretch once an hour or to go for a walk after dinner. Even a small amount of physical activity can be a huge boost to your mental health.
Go outside. Similarly, getting a chance to be outside, even for a few minutes, can have a noticeably positive impact on your mood. Incorporate 10 minute walks into your lunch break, go for a run before work, or get at least half an hour of sunshine into your day.
Meditation isn’t overrated. Studies have shown that just 10 minutes of meditation a day can improve your sense of well-being. Find the time you feel most comfortable committing to meditation, be it when you wake up, before bed or on your commute home. The more you practice, the better you’ll begin to feel.
Get your eight hours. One of the best ways you can take care of yourself is by prioritizing your sleep. Lack of sleep is linked to all sorts of negative health outcomes, including weight gain and depression. Adults need a minimum of seven to eight hours a night, so do your best to create a sleep schedule for yourself and stick to it.
Talk to someone. Finally, never assume that you need to suffer alone. Work burnout is a common phenomenon, and there are likely other people you know going through the same thing. Be it your coworkers, friends or family, make a point of explaining how you’re feeling to someone else. The act of commiseration is extremely beneficial—sometimes we just need to be heard.
