How to prevent burn out and stay happy
During COVID life as we knew it is changing rapidly and more so every single day and it can feel exhausting. You may start to feel frustrated and burnt out. Here are some situations that you may be facing and how to push yourself forward.
Unemployment process burnout
Let’s face it, it’s terrible. You try to get through on the phone and/or email and it’s draining. Don’t give up! Take a step back and breathe. While you are on hold instead of just sitting and waiting and waiting consider putting that call on speaker and doing something that is productive or just purely for your enjoyment. Cook yourself a nice meal, watch a tv show, or even catch up on some laundry. Just make sure the phone is close by while you wait to help make the process a little less stressful. By doing something you need to do or that you enjoy it will make the time pass by quicker and it won’t feel like such a waste.
Job searching burnout
Looking for work IS a full-time job in of itself and when your focus is 100% on finding work it can be very easy to burn out. Take some time to step back, re-fresh and re-boot. If you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed or increasingly stressed as you search, stop, and spend 15-20 minutes doing something nonjob search-related. Read a book, watch a show, take a walk, and get your mind off of things. Chances are the job won’t slip away if you allow yourself a few moments to take a break!
Financial burnout
If you’re worried about money, you’re not alone. Many people, from all over the world are currently dealing with financial stress and uncertainty at this difficult time. Whether your problems are from a loss of work, debt, unexpected expenses, or a combination of different things, financial worry is one of the most common stressors. Feeling overwhelmed and burnout concerning money worries can greatly impact your sleep, self-esteem, and energy levels. Here are some things you can do!
- Talk with someone
If you are feeling this way the first thing you can do is speak to someone. Whether it's a family or friend or even a professional. There is no shame in sharing your burdens and you will feel less stressed knowing you are not alone. If you are feeling depressed or suicidal please call 1-800-273-TALK to speak with someone at any time of day or night!
**- *Get help ***
Don't punish yourself! Depending on where you live, there are a number of organizations that offer free counseling to help you cope with financial problems, whether it’s managing debt, creating and sticking to a budget, communicating with creditors, or claiming benefits or financial assistance.
- Keep track of your finances
It is important during this time to know where you are spending your money. Create a list either on your computer or write it down and determine ALL of your bills (such as car or school loans, mortgage or rent, utility, etc.) and how much money goes towards each. Also consider other expenses such as food, clothing, prescriptions, pet and child needs, as well as home/car maintenance, etc. You can also set up autopay for your bills to ensure they are paid on time!
Work burnout
If your job is causing you to feel anxious or just exhausted day in and day out you may be close to burning out. Consider confiding in a friend or co-worker you trust and share your experiences. They may have a solution that will help. When you are allowed breaks at work, be sure to take them! Eat a snack and do something just for yourself during that time and unplug from work. It’s also important to allow for some time off so you can prioritize your mental and physical well being.
