Surviving Burnout: I’m exhausted and I can’t take a break

More than once in my career, I have survived burnout. The kind that is so overwhelming when you reflect back you have no idea how you got through it and how those close to you “survived” you. Many times I was able to take a break, a long vacation but other times I couldn’t take a break. I had to show up every day and deliver.

This blog post is for those who can’t step away. The projects ahead of you are critical and can’t be postponed or rescheduled. Here are a few quick tips to help push through until the next vacation or stay-cay:

Me on the Bay Trail. (Mask off for photo)

Determine your most productive days and hours and schedule meetings accordingly. Sometimes you don’t have control over this, but when you can, schedule timeframes that work for you. People will and can adjust.

Opt for phone calls. Every meeting doesn’t have to be a Zoom call. Maybe even take the call outdoors (in a quiet place). Zoom calls take another level of attention and energy that is doubly exhausting.

Treat yourself. Order from your favorite restaurant or bakery. There’s nothing like a busy morning or afternoon, followed by your favorite food or dessert.

Social distance meetings. If you live near open green spaces, maybe schedule a meeting with one or two colleagues, socially distant with masks, and have an outdoor meeting. Afterward, maybe go for a walk.

Take a break. Most days, you won’t be able to break away. But when you can make it count! Can you schedule a mental health day every two weeks? Maybe take off a Wednesday or a Monday? When I can’t take a day off, I will typically jump on my treasured Schwinn hybrid with a basket full of colorful flowers, and take a quick ride on the marina and breathe in the fresh air. It helps to keep me energized for the rest of the day. I’ve even taken an online Zumba class in the afternoon to give me a burst of energy for extended workdays.

Continue to remind yourself that this is not forever; this too shall pass. Hang in there.