3 Traits to Help You Practice the Intentional Pause to Recharge from Burnout

Intentional pausing is a powerful remedy against burnout.

The intentional pause is a small investment of time that can yield significant returns in preventing burnout and boosting productivity.

Here are three traits you already have within you for practicing the intentional pause to recharge from burnout.

Be Aware

Self-awareness is the foundation of the intentional pause.

Are you experiencing chronic fatigue, decreased productivity, or detachment from work? These could be signs of burnout. It’s a common mistake to wait until you’re utterly depleted before pausing; instead, look for these early signals and start taking breaks.

Be Disciplined

Disciplining yourself to pause might sound counterintuitive, but it’s essential in preventing burnout.

Give yourself a daily timeout for activities that refresh you, such as a morning meditation, an afternoon walk, or an evening reading. Even a brief break from a task can improve your focus and productivity. The key is consistency.

Be Present

Simply taking a break isn’t enough; it’s vital to be fully present during these moments.

It’s a common mistake to let your mind wander back to work during your pause. Instead, engage fully with your break activity, such as noticing your breath during meditation, feeling the wind on your face during a walk, or immersing yourself in the storyline of your book. Being fully present can help you recharge.