There is no doubt that entrepreneurship is one of the most difficult paths you can choose. Let’s face it, when you’re being pulled in many directions and on the clock 24/7, burnout can feel inevitable. Along with this, we live in a world where “grind” and “hustle” are prestigious terms. While grind and hustle are needed to get your business off the ground, it’s not sustainable 24/7. Today’s blog post will discuss how you can prevent burnout and still make progress in your business. 

How To Identify Burnout

Before we dive into preventing burnout, it’s essential to know how to spot it in your life.

According to the Mayo Clinic, burnout is “a type of work-related stress — a state of physical or emotional exhaustion that also involves a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity.” Although it does not hit all at once as a cold or flu would, it has different phases. Reputable psychologists, Gail North and Herbert Freudenberger outlined the 12-phases of burnout:

1. 1. 1. Excessive drive and ambition
      2. Pushing yourself to work harder
      3. Neglecting your own needs
      4. Displacement of conflict 
      5. No time for non-work related needs
      6. Denial
      7. Withdrawal 
      8. Behavior changes
      9. Depersonalization
      10. Anxiety
      11. Depression
      12. Mental or physical collapse

Telltale Signs Of Burnout

• • • Loss of enjoyment
    • Lack of sleep 
    • Changes in appetite 
    • Low energy levels 
    • Decreased motivation

Ways To Prevent Burnout 

Now that you know how to spot it, how do you prevent it?

1. Use the Pomodoro Method. Science has proven that the human mind cannot effectively focus on one thing for long periods. The Pomodoro Method is a well-researched method that is supported by evolutionary biology. This method suggests that for every 25 minutes of work, you rest for 5 minutes. Check out these free apps to implement this method into your workday. 
2. Take a step back. As a small business owner, it can be terrifying to take a day off or even a vacation. You must realize this “no days off” mentality is toxic and a one-way track to burnout. Don’t be afraid to honor your energy levels and take an afternoon off. Your mind, body, and business will thank you! 
3. Prioritize your tasks. As an entrepreneur, you want to tackle as much as possible in one sitting. To work smart, consider using this method:

• • • Brain dump everything you need to get done in one place.  
    • Go through the list and put a star by the most time-sensitive tasks.
    • Prioritize your tasks for the day based on importance and urgency. 

Things To Do If You’re Experiencing Burnout Now

In an ideal world, you would be taking steps to prevent burnout. In cases where you’re already in too deep, and burnout is knocking at your door, try some of these:

• • Set boundaries with yourself 
  • Prioritize self-care
  • Take a break
  • Talk to a trusted friend or therapist about your struggles
  • Take care of your mental health. Check out our blog post on caring for your mental health here

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