5 Tips for Being Productive When Feeling Burned Out
“Understanding how to find the magic moments in your daily life is critical. If you subscribe to the philosophy that says, “My vacation will free me from burnout,” then you`re waiting for a few days out of the year to make up for many days of stress. Instead, you have to be able to take mini-vacations on a daily basis.” ~ Tony Robbins
I’ve been going through a time — about three weeks or so — where I don’t feel like doing anything, especially the one thing that brings me joy no matter what. Writing.
It wasn’t until I had a discussion with a colleague that I realized what I’ve been feeling is burnout. This realization hit me between the eyes. I had never experienced these feelings and I know if I’m feeling them, you might be feeling them too.
On the days when you’re feeling lazy or burned out, trying to be productive feels impossible. At the end of these types of days, you feel worse about what you didn’t accomplish. That To-Do list is still looming and possibly getting longer. All these feelings of inadequacy create more feelings of burnout.
Pulling yourself out of this funk is difficult. But doing so will be a huge benefit in the long run. Here are five tips to help you feel more productive, especially when you feel burned out.
1. Celebrate the Positives
Focus on what you did achieve. Take stock of those accomplishments. This is a good time to pull out pen and paper and write down those successes no matter how large or small.
2. Distractions Be Gone
Try to limit distractions as much as possible. It’s important to set boundaries to limit distractions. For examples of how to set boundaries, you can read my post here. Close your office door or put up a partition. A sign will even help. If you have trouble focusing and are easily distracted, try listening to upbeat music through headphones.
3. Create An Action Plan
On days when you feel like you can’t do anything, it’s helpful to have a plan in place. Think about your projects. Is there some small task you can do that doesn’t use a lot of mental energy? Can you call a friend and ask them to help you stay accountable for getting tasks A and B done? Have a set backup plan for these days.
Your action plan should also include any non-negotiable tasks that you cannot put off until another day. Prioritize those important tasks and get through them upfront. Once these are done you can give yourself permission to lounge around. 😊
4. Set Realistic Goals
On days when you’re feeling burned out, limit your goals for the day. Lessen your expectations on days you don’t feel completely yourself. When you set realistic goals, you’ll accomplish more and then you’re less likely to carry feelings of burnout into the next day.
5. Ask For Help When Needed
There are times when you need to reach out to a professional. Embrace those times. You are not crazy. There is nothing wrong with you. There is no need to be embarrassed. Everybody needs help every now and then.
Asking for help may also mean delegating tasks that you just cannot wrap your head around and get done. Find ways to lessen your workload in any way possible so you’re not as overwhelmed. There is no shame in asking for help.
Takeaway
Do. No. Be. Afraid. To Ask. For. Help.
Discover the Power of Self-Love
Self-love is not selfish.
When you’re feeling overwhelmed and burned out, that is the perfect time to show yourself a little love. This Self-Love Journal is a powerful tool when you need to reconnect to yourself and explore what makes you unique. Pick up your copy of your Self-Love Journal here: https://patriciabumpass.com/product/self-love-journal/
