Has your energy fire burnt down to mere ashes?
Burnout is more than just feeling tired; it is a deep, all-encompassing exhaustion that drains joy from even the smallest parts of life. Dr Rangan Chatterjee defines burnout as “the state of emotional, mental and often physical exhaustion, brought on by prolonged or repeated stress”. If you are feeling detached from others, craving social isolation or noticing that you are unusually cynical or judgmental, these can be early warning signs. Burnout also dulls creativity, making problem-solving feel impossible. Daily moments that once brought pleasure – like a warm cup of tea or a sunny morning – now feel flat. You may find your self-care slipping, movement becoming limited and your energy for life slowly dissolving. These symptoms creep in quietly, but together they form a heavy load that is hard to carry. Recognising these signs early is key to gently guiding yourself back to balance and healing.
Burnout is not resolved by simply pushing through – it asks us to stop, breathe and make changes that restore and protect our wellbeing. Healing begins by creating small, intentional shifts in your daily life that tell your body and mind they are safe, supported and worthy of care. These shifts do not need to be radical, but they do need to be regular and, most importantly, realistic for your current life situation.
Dr Chatterjee’s advice for overcoming burnout is beautifully simple and practical:
- Do something just for yourself, even if only for five minutes each day.
- Say “no” without guilt when you have reached your limit.
- Make rest a priority, even if it is just once a week.
- Schedule time for meaningful social interactions.
- Plan and protect time in your day to move your body.
- Prioritise at least seven hours of restful sleep, including a gentle winding-down routine beforehand.
- Choose fresh, natural foods that nourish rather than deplete you.
- Define the end of your workday clearly, and honour that boundary by shifting into relaxation mode.
Burnout recovery is not about perfection; it is about kindness to yourself, your body and your mind. With small, regular acts of care, healing becomes not only possible but inevitable. Let this be your invitation to begin and make 2025 a year of healing and regenerating your energy!
Dr. Marlise Calitz
Educational Psychologist
