Burnout. The big, bad, soul-sucking monster that devours your passion, energy, and ability to function like a regular human being. I know it well. I practically had a VIP pass to burnout these past twenty years while running my former business. And as of last month, I finally shut the doors on that chapter of my life.
Was it bittersweet? Absolutely. That was a huge chapter in my life.
Was it also the biggest relief? Oh, 100% yes. Moving forward is another chapter I’m happy to embrace.
Here’s the thing; burnout doesn’t just show up one day like a surprise party. It sneaks in, slowly draining you dry while you tell yourself “just one more thing” or “I’ll rest after this project.” And before you know it, you’re running on fumes, fueled by sheer obligation and probably an ungodly amount of caffeine. (yes, lots and lots and LOTS of caffeine)
Fun fact: Did you know 400mg of caffeine is the recommended limit per day? I get that much and not a drop more … really … I don’t…
The Lessons Burnout Slapped Me in the Face With
- You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup (But You’ll Sure Try, You Know You Will)
I ran my business for years, constantly putting clients, deadlines, and expectations above everything else … including my health, my family, and my basic human need for rest. Turns out, that’s a fast track to exhaustion and resentment. It’s also a fast track to ruining relationships and your own health. Thankfully, to all the gods that be, my husband is a very understanding man and accepts me for who I am. That doesn’t mean I don’t get that ‘look’ once in a while. - Self-Care Isn’t Optional
For the longest time, I thought of self-care as one of those cute Pinterest-worthy luxuries, not a necessity. Turns out, taking time for myself, my family, and activities that don’t revolve around work is the only way to function like a semi-sane person. It took me a long time to learn that and until the pandemic of all things, I didn’t think it was all that important. - Slowing Down Is a Necessity
I used to believe hustle was the answer to everything. It’s not. Slowing down, breathing, and, gasp, smelling the flowers isn’t laziness, it’s survival. Rest is important not just for survival, but for functioning. Slow down and smell the flowers, enjoy those moments, don’t let them leave you in the dust as they pass you by. - Boundaries Are Your Lifeline
Oh, boundaries. That thing I didn’t have for years and paid the price for. Now? I have hard boundaries around my time off, family time, and work hours. They are non-negotiable, and honestly? Life-changing. I can’t tell you how rich my relationships are now and how much more fulfilling life is. Learning to say ‘no’ to myself, not just other people, is probably one of the most freeing things I’ve ever done.
Why You Shouldn’t Walk This Path Alone
Recovery from burnout isn’t just about taking bubble baths and napping (although, let’s be real, those do help). It’s about having people around you who remind you that you’re not superhuman, you’re allowed to rest, and, most importantly, you don’t have to do it all alone.
Because let’s be honest, when you’re deep in burnout, your brain isn’t exactly your best advisor. Having a solid support system, friends, family, therapists, fellow recovering burnout survivors, keeps you from sliding right back into the chaos.
And let’s be honest again … we all know those friends that will keep you in line. You know who you are. Thank them and remember they’re doing it because they love you, and more than likely see things from the outside looking in that you don’t.
The Hard Truth: I’m Still Recovering
I’d love to say I have it all figured out, but nope. I still have ADHD-fueled, late-night work binges when I should be sleeping.
I still struggle to fully relax without guilt gnawing at me. But I’m learning, I’m inching up that ladder to get out of this burned out pit and can finally see the light peeking through the clouds.
And if you’re walking this burnout road too, here’s my advice: take the detour before you crash. Build your support system. Set your boundaries. And, for the love of everything, STOP treating exhaustion like a badge of honor.
You are more than your productivity. Take care of yourself first; everything else can wait. It will still be there tomorrow. Don’t let your brain gaslight you into thinking you have to be ‘on’ all the time.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have some flowers to go smell.
