As the year draws to a close, many of us are finding ourselves grappling with a sense of exhaustion and burnout. The accumulated stress of the year’s challenges, both personal and professional, can leave you feeling drained and overwhelmed. This is not an ideal state to be in given December is often packed with extra commitments. There can be a strange, almost apocalyptic, sense of urgency to book in things before the end of the year. But is all the hustle good for you if you are already feeling burnt out?

Understanding Burnout

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can manifest in feelings of emptiness, cynicism, and a lack of motivation. Understanding the signs of burnout is the first step towards addressing it.

Common Signs of End-of-Year Burnout

• Feeling constantly tired or drained
• Reduced performance and motivation
• Feelings of disillusionment
• Difficulty concentrating and making decisions

The Impact of the Holiday Season

The holiday season, often associated with joy and celebration, can paradoxically exacerbate feelings of burnout. The pressure to meet societal expectations, along with personal and professional obligations, intensifies stress. But perhaps now is the time to create more space rather than filling it up.

Strategies to Combat Burnout

Prioritize Self-Care: Allocate time for activities away from the hustle that rejuvenate your spirit, such as reading, meditating, or spending time in nature.
Set Realistic Expectations: Acknowledge your limits and set achievable goals for work priorities, self-care and socialising.
Seek Support: Tell friends, family, and colleagues you are trying to ease into the end of year rather than making a mad dash for the finish line. Choose who will get it and seek their support.
Reflect and Recharge: Use this time to reflect on the past year’s experiences and plan for a more balanced approach in the coming year.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

While burnout can feel overwhelming, it’s important to remember that it’s a temporary state. With the right strategies, you can emerge from this period feeling more resilient and prepared for the new year.
As you bid farewell to the year, embrace the opportunity to reset and recharge. Reflect on your journey, recognize your achievements, and approach the new year with a renewed sense of purpose and optimism.

Stay tuned to our next newsletter for How to discover your purpose.