Seven years ago, I was exactly where you might be right now. I had checked off all the boxes: a thriving career, financial success, and from the outside, it looked like I was living the dream. But inside, I was struggling. The professional success that I once strived for felt empty, and I was the least happy I had ever been.
I thought I didn’t have time to take care of myself. I kept pushing through, day after day, until the weight of it all became unbearable. Stress had consumed me, and one day, I broke. I found myself in a deep, dark place that I never imagined I could experience. Everything felt out of control—my thoughts, my emotions, and my life.
If any of this sounds familiar, I want you to know that it doesn’t have to be your story. You can take action before you hit your lowest low.
What is Burnout?
Burnout is more than just feeling tired. It’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion that builds up over time, because of chronic, unmanaged stress. When stress is allowed to fester, it affects every aspect of our lives. It clouds our thinking, alters how we communicate, and drains our energy.
I know this because I’ve been there. I didn’t think burnout could happen to me. I was the optimistic one, the glass-overflowing kind of person. But seven years ago, my mind and body had had enough. I gave and gave until there was nothing left. My body and mind forced me to stop, and it was the hardest wake-up call I’ve ever had.
Signs of Burnout
So, how do you know if you’re burnt out? Here are some signs I wish I’d paid attention to sooner:
- No longer caring about the things that used to light you up
- Reduced productivity
- Lowered motivation
- Increased errors
- Chronic fatigue
- Irritability and frequent frustration
- A growing sense of negativity
- Declining physical health
- Reduced job satisfaction
If you find yourself asking, “Am I burnt out?” the label doesn’t really matter. What matters is that you’re asking the question, and that’s a sign that something needs to change. It’s your body and mind telling you that it’s time to do things differently.
What Now?
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight, and recovery isn’t instant either. But the good news is that you can take steps to reclaim your energy, clarity, and well-being before reaching a breaking point. It starts with recognizing the signs and taking action to prioritize your mental, physical, and emotional health.
Don’t wait until you’re completely depleted. You deserve to feel fulfilled, balanced, and energized in your life and career. You can make a change—before burnout takes control.
If you’re curious to learn more, check out my personal services page or if your ready to make that shift, schedule a call. I’ve been there, and I can help you find your way back to a more balanced, thriving life.
