Is staying focused a foreign concept to you? Wondering how to stay motivated and keep your concentration? You may be burning out.
Our work and personal lives are busier than ever, and it seems that we just can’t get enough done in the 24 hours we have each day. As a result, we push ourselves too hard — trying to meet all our different commitments, from work to family and friends to and our community.
When you get burned out, the best cure is usually to remove yourself from whatever’s causing you stress, and then relax and recuperate. But what if it’s impossible to get the rest you need because you’re at work? Here are 7 ways to avoid burnout and keep yourself on an even keel.
1. Get outside the office.
You’re a thousand times more likely to get cabin fever when you’re stuck at your desk all day, no matter how mentally active you may be. Take 10 minutes for a quick walk outside — and be sure to take plenty of deep breaths. You’ll feel more relaxed and less stressed almost immediately.
2. Talk with the boss.
If you’re taking on too many tasks at work and don’t have enough time to get them all done, sit down with your manager and ask for some relief. Explain the quality of your work will improve if you’re not so stressed and overwhelmed with assignments. That benefits you and the business.
3. Avoid the couch.
If you’ve got a couch in your breakroom or lobby, the least useful thing you can do when you’re feeling burned out is to sit on it. You might think a little time on the couch will help you recharge your batteries, but it can actually put you in an even deeper funk. Avoid it at all costs!
4. Lists are your friend.
Tried and true: Make a to-do list. Get your mind off whatever you’re working on quickly and easily by using this simple organization trick. You’ll feel more productive, and that burnout you’re feeling may quickly evaporate.
5. Keep your snacks healthy.
Don’t try to calm your nerves by eating sugary candy or fatty snacks. It’ll make you feel more lethargic rather than energized and ready to work. Instead, grab some fruit, veggies or nuts, which will leave you feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the day’s tasks.
6. Seek perfection, accept excellence.
Being a perfectionist can cause a lot of stress in our lives, leading to burnout. While there’s nothing wrong with striving for perfection in our work, excellence is good enough for most tasks that we do. Give yourself a break and don’t try to always be perfect — that’s something that few of us can sustain for very long.
7. Be positive.
Try to keep a positive outlook that, at the end of the day, it’ll all work out. No matter how burned out you’re feeling right now, you can be certain that no matter how difficult things may be for you in this moment, this too shall pass.
