Refresh & Renew: Avoiding Burnout

Ways to Refresh & Renew Your Energy
Ah, glorious summer! One of the best excuses to take a break, hit the open road, and find a change of scenery. For those of us in the desert, we head north for pine trees and double digits! As I've just returned from a few days away, the total break is still fresh in my mind.

Leave the Work at Home
Seriously. The world will not end. You can do it! Cemeteries are full of indispensable people. You need a break. You deserve a break! You will thank yourself for it later.

#1 Way to Avoid Burnout
Taking time away from your usual routine is critical for your mental health. Our brains need a rest and a change. You'll be more clear headed and with fresh ideas if you truly take a break. Some go on a total device/electronics break to be able to truly disconnect from the daily grind. Out of office messages on email are a godsend! Folks can leave you a message knowing when you'll be back. If you're a business owner, you should have someone who can cover for you  with truly critical matters. Everyone needs a back-up - this is the time to use it. 

Burnout is Tough
We've all been there at various times and to various levels. Regular breaks can lessen the depth of burnout when it hits. In extreme cases, burnout can last for months to even a year! It can even lead to depression, substance abuse, and suicide. Let's not do that. 

The Solution is Simple
Self-care is critical on a daily basis - more than 1-2 times a year and a vacation. But do schedule those truly away holidays to fully recharge! It gets the ideas flowing when you disconnect from work.

Options on the Daily:

• Get enough sleep.
• Drink enough water.
• Eat regularly in the day - don't skip meals.
• Eat well-rounded meals - food that is fuel for your body and not draining.
• Exercise - move your body.
• Meditate or some form of quiet non-work time each day.
• Maintain important relationships - family and friends. One of the hallmarks of burnout is isolation sets in as you're "too busy" for anyone else.
• Look at your schedule - plate too full? 
• Delegate what you can.
• Practice saying "no." (this is a hard one!) One idea is to build in a pause before agreeing to that one more tempting project - sleep on it - get back to the offer tomorrow. 
• Shuffle your schedule - there are tons of time management books and classes out there. Prioritize with you as the highest priority!

What are your go-to methods to avoid burnout? Love to hear your solutions!

H/T to Tara Whitaker's recent inspiring podcast! 

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