02 July 2024

In the busyness of everyday life, it can be easy to downplay the amount of stress we are actually experiencing. While you may not feel overwhelmed with chronic stress at the moment, it's important to consider if the challenges you are facing are gradually pushing you towards burnout. It's worth taking a moment to reflect on whether the pressures you are dealing with are reaching a level that could potentially lead to physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Prioritising self-care and seeking support when needed are crucial steps in preventing burnout and maintaining overall well-being. What you really need to ask yourself on a weekly basis is this:

Are the problems in your life putting you at risk of going from a normal stress level to full-blown burnout?

Burnout and stress are closely intertwined. Chronic exposure to stress, where one is constantly faced with challenging situations and problems, can ultimately lead to burnout. However, it is important to recognise that not all stress is detrimental.

In fact, small doses of stress can be beneficial as they trigger the body's natural defence mechanisms. The stress response is intricately linked to our fight-or-flight instinct, activating all senses to effectively deal with threats or escape danger.

It is when this heightened state becomes a constant reality that burnout can set in, affecting our mental, physical, and emotional well-being. It is crucial to find a balance and implement self-care practices to prevent burnout and maintain overall health and resilience.

Ask Yourself This: Am I a Candidate for Burnout?

When evaluating your job, it's important to reflect on whether you truly love what you do. If you find yourself excited to start each day and eager to dive into your work, chances are that your stress levels are manageable. This enthusiasm can serve as a powerful indicator that chronic stress is not looming over you as you begin your workday.

On the other hand, consider how you typically spend your time when you're not working. Does this activity bring you a sense of calm, or does it leave you feeling overwhelmed with stress? If stress is not a constant presence in your daily life outside of work, chances are that you have a healthy balance that doesn't necessitate immediate concern.

Ultimately, the key is to pay attention to both your work life and personal life, allowing yourself to assess your stress levels and make adjustments as needed. By prioritising your well-being and maintaining a mindful approach to managing stress, you can cultivate a fulfilling and harmonious lifestyle.

Burnout comes from a consistent and relentless delivery of stress.

Whether it's on the job, at home, or anywhere else, it's stress that you can't escape. It's right in your face and gets you to the point where you feel like you will explode.

Some jobs are more stressful than others. Yahoo Finance reports that the following occupations are more likely to lead to burnout than others.

• Retail

• Surgeon

• Fast food worker

• Social worker

• Air traffic controller

• Construction worker

• Teacher

• Nurse

• Certified public accountant

• Firefighter

• Emergency medical technician

If you don't work any of those jobs, that doesn't mean you're immune to burnout. It's important to remember that burnout can affect anyone, regardless of the type of job they have. Constantly feeling stressed is unhealthy and can have a negative impact on your well-being. If you find that stress is overwhelming you, seeking help from a mental health professional is a positive step towards managing your stress levels and improving your overall mental health. Remember, it's okay to seek help and prioritise your well-being.

How to Play the Long Game (and Avoid Burnout) - with Brendon Burchard