R.E.S.E.T.

Do you feel like you are sinking and in over your head not sure what to do next? Maybe you are stuck in a rut and feeling like Bill Murray from the 1993 film, Groundhog Day. If so, it may be time for a reset.

Reset. What is it and how does it work? The meaning of reset is to set again as in to reset an alarm clock or a broken bone. Reset can even mean to fix in a new or different way, like priorities. However, what does reset mean for you? Reset for me, is to stop the things that I regularly do daily and do something else.

What is it that you do to RESET your batteries to avoid burnout? This question is one that we all need to ask ourselves from time to time, or even giving people permission to speak into our lives when they notice the need for a reset.

Here are five things to help you RESET.

1.       Recognize the signs

Have you felt less motivated, and nothing matters? Is your attitude towards others including family members been a little short lately? Are you getting enough sleep at night? Have you called off work more frequently? Is your job no longer a joy? These are just a few signs that you may be on the verge of burnout.

2.       Evaluate your priorities

There are many reasons for potential burnout. However, what we allow to take priority directly impacts the schedule. Think of it this way. When we say yes to everything you are saying no to something else. We don’t always see the direct impact of what saying yes can do toward our mental and physical health or even to our families. Which leads to the third thing.

3.       Set boundaries

It is important for individuals to set boundaries. Remember that what you say yes to you are saying no to something else. We live in a society that is afraid to say no. No can help keep our priorities in place. By setting boundaries and saying no can be freeing. When you know your priorities, it is easier to create the boundaries needed. Let me say it this way. Have you heard of quiet quitting? Quiet quitting is not quitting your job but setting boundaries. No longer are people willing to stay the extra hour or even come in a little earlier. Setting boundaries even in your friendships. The people you have in your life should be life giving and not life sucking.

4.       Explore new possibilities

Look at other ways to give back. When you start feeling burnout it probably means that you are focusing on one thing too much. Branch out of your comfort zone and learn something new. This could be from helping in a classroom to volunteering for a local organization. When you use your gifts and talents the possibilities are endless.

5.       Take time to reassess

The last thing that you will want to do is reassess. Write everything down that you have in your schedule and continually see if you have kept your boundaries or have they moved a little. Do you have too much on your plate with new possibilities? Look at the things that give you life and energy. Reassessing every three to six months can help you stay focused and moving away from burnout.

Final thoughts on burnout and ways to help you overcome.

-          Take a power nap. Power naps are no longer than 20 minutes and help boost your energy.

-          Take an extra day off. Use this time to take a break and rest.

-          Get moving. Find some friends or your spouse and go for a walk, a hike, or doing something you enjoy. It not only helps with the physical but helps with the mental and emotional well-being of the individual.

-          Start a hobby. Over the years, I have found that having a hobby helps with getting your mind off the things that are stressful. Learning something new helps use a different part of the brain that you normally use day to day. 

What are some other ways to prevent burnout? Share in the comments.