Happy Monday, pretties!
I hope you all had an amazing Easter weekend! We had a really nice weekend relaxing and hanging out with family. Anddd since it’s the first Monday of the month, that means it’s time for another Motivation Monday post! This one has been a long time coming and something that I have been struggling with personally for the past six months or so. Below I’m sharing a bit of my story and five ways for preventing burn out.
Sweater c/o | Levi’s Jeans (old – similar here) | Heels c/o | Futon c/o | Ottoman (on sale!) | Tassel Garland c/o | Mug c/o | Necklace | Target and Pier1 Pillows (old – similar here)
5 WAYS FOR PREVENTING BURN OUT
Time to be honest…my life has been completely insane lately and it’s totally because of me. I made the decision for it to be that way because I have a hard time saying NO. I like to please people and help them out, but in exchange I am left exhausted and burnt out. Last week was spring break and it was a revelation for me. I said no to everyone but myself and it felt good and was exactly what I needed after a rough few months. I like my blog to be a positive and encouraging place and it certainly evokes that through my colorful, cheerful photos. But what you don’t see is what goes on behind the scenes. You don’t see the girl that is working 16-20 hours a day between two businesses that demand her attention… the girl that falls asleep every chance she gets and is in tears because she is so exhausted all the time… the girl that is constantly stressed out from a seemingly never ending to do list.
How did it get to this point? When you work for yourself, things can get out of control. You can work all day and not realize it, especially if you love the work you do. With that being said, I knew that I was taking on too much not only in my professional life but in my personal life as well. I was putting in SO much time, yet I wasn’t seeing anything come out of it. My epiphany came when I started to get bags under my eyes (something I’ve never had before), was frequently nodding off during work and realized that my hair was falling out more than usual. I saw that I cannot successfully run a business (or two) without, first and foremost, taking care of myself and this is when I decided that changes need to be made.
I know that now that spring break has passed, real life will be creeping back in. I’m going to be overworked, overwhelmed and exhausted…but only if I choose to be. I cannot be everything to everyone, I can’t learn, evolve and grow my business if I’m busy doing day-to-day tasks and I certainly can’t go after the dream I’ve worked so hard for if I’m feeling unmotivated and exhausted from taking on too much. I’ve realized that there will never be “enough time” and that I have been incredibly hard on myself these last few months and for what reason?
Last week, I really sat down and thought about what was happening: I thought about my future and made realistic goals, I thought about my past and gave myself permission to let go, and most importantly, I thought about right now…this moment… and promised myself that I would make the necessary changes for my health, wellness and sanity. I do feel like when you get to this point, you have to actively make a decision to change things, otherwise, even though you’re well-intentioned, things eventually tend to go back to the way they were without any real structure. This is why it’s important to take preventative measures initially and I’ve listed five of what I feel are the most important ones below:
Preventing Burn Out – Say NO
I know this is hard for a lot of people and honestly, this is probably my biggest fault. I don’t like to hurt people’s feelings. But you have to remember that YOU come before everyone else and if you already have too much going on (or even if you don’t), then it is completely fine to decline and not feel awful about it. Last week, I declined a handful of meetings, a ton of extra work, and the steady income of my second business…. and you know what? It felt really good. With the extra time, I felt like I actually accomplished MORE by doing less. While I still technically worked full time hours last week for the blog, I actually ended up finishing ALL of my tasks early leaving me time for personal tasks that I wasn’t able to accomplish before and more importantly, time for myself including the time to start and complete an art project I’ve been dying to do (something I haven’t made time for in YEARS). The lesson here is that you don’t have to be everything to everyone. You can still accomplish things and have time for yourself and you should NEVER feel bad about saying no because when you say no to someone else, you are saying yes to yourself.
Preventing Burn Out – Make Time for Yourself
Carving time out for yourself daily is so so important! It can’t be all work all the time and no play. I understand that this is easier said than done, especially for entrepreneurs, but that’s why it should be even more of a priority. You absolutely have to give yourself a break and make time for simple things that you love to do and that help you decompress and if that means that you need to create blocks of time in your daily schedule and set an alarm, then do it. Things as simple as taking a nap, going for a walk, reading a book, listening to music or just getting away from your phone are simple things that you can do to not only de-stress, but to improve your overall quality of life.
Preventing Burn Out – Take Care of Yourself
Sometimes when you become to immersed in your work, self-care can suffer. Staying hydrated, eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising, and meditating can make a big difference in your overall appearance and the way that you feel. Making time for these things is crucial in being balanced, healthy and productive. Isn’t it ironic that you would more productive by doing less work? I’ve also found that taking the time to get ready everyday is also helpful. Taking a shower, putting on actual clothing and making yourself look presentable make a big difference in the way you feel, thus making a difference in the way you work. Lastly, take a vacation and actually be present during the vacation. You’ll come back feeling refreshed and motivated.
Preventing Burn Out – Switch Up Your Location
I know that many of you may not work from home, but if you do, I feel like switching your surroundings every once in a while is important. Things can get redundant and boring, if you are stuck in the same place day in and day out. Make it a point to take your work elsewhere every now and then. Head to the park, the beach, a cute coffee shop, a new city or even your own backyard and I promise you that you will come back feeling even more inspired.
Preventing Burn Out – Find a Hobby
Your whole life isn’t meant to be about work. Make time for yourself by learning a new skill or finding a hobby to look forward to in your off hours. Maybe it’s learning how to play an instrument, creating something fun in art class, learning some new dance moves, or reviving an old hobby that you previously didn’t make time for. Chances are that you will perform better professionally because you are making time to do things that you are interested in and excited about if you have a hobby to look forward to each day or each week.
You could go back to the things you did in the past if that helps. Usually, it is easier rekindling your youthful love of backgammon than it is to try something completely new, like Minecraft. But, of course, everyone is an individual, and it really depends on who you are and what you want to prioritise. Getting a hobby draws you out of your head and brings you back into the world of real things.
Do you have any other tips to add for preventing burn out?
xo
Also, you have a chance to win this adorable futon! Check out my Instagram for more details <3
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Check out my other Motivation Monday Posts below:
7 Tips for Knowing Your Self Worth
Why Perfectionism is Ruining Your Life
These are such great tips! A hobby is so good, it’s a great way to relax and distract!!
XOXO
Cathy
I couldn’t agree more!
i totally agree with you girl!!! I constantly get burnt out so i need to take time out and donsome self-care thank you for these tips!!!
Jasmine 🙂
http://Www.shebold.life
You are so welcome, Jasmine!
I’m the same. I’m a complete people-pleaser and I have the hardest time saying no. One of my goals this year is to take care of myself first, before taking care of others. I think finding a hobby is really important; for me that’s blogging at the moment 🙂 xx
Reine | The Blush Luxe
That’s my goal for the year too! And having time to pursue things that you love is so important!
I couldn’t agree more with your sentiments. I just took a break from blogging and it was exactly what I needed. Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thanks for this! I always have to go to the gym for some destressing!
Briana
https://beyoutifulbrunette.com/
The moment you stop pleasing people you get half your life and time back, isn’t it? I agree with all your tips. Taking a break every now and then also helps get a kick start on creativity.
❥ tanvii.com
Fab tips! I definitely agree with them all, especially saying no and finding a hobby outside of this blog world.
http://www.ohtobeamuse.com
I like how you put saying no first. I think saying no really often means saying yes to more important things.
Amy Ann
Straight A Style
It is SO hard to say no. I have that problem too, Liz. Although I will admit that it’s gotten easier as I’ve gotten older. Either because I realize how important it is or because I’ve done it more!!
XOXO
Jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
Making time for yourself and saying no is a game changer! When you’re stressed, exhausted and overworked nothing good comes out of it. Make yourself a #1 priority!
Megan | http://www.pipmegan.com
You have to take time for yourself. It’s so important to recharge and just relax. Life is meant to be enjoyed and savored and if you’re rushing through you really can’t see the beauty in it. I hope you’re able to really take time for yourself and learn that saying no is really saying yes to you!
http://www.mylittlenest.org
Thank you so much for this reminder, Ruth! You are so right. Life passes by when we are busy doing other things instead of the things we truly enjoy.
Saying No is so important!!!! It’s taken me a few years to learn this one and I sometimes still struggle with it. These are some great tips!
Such great tips Lizzie!
Saying no is one of the most important things I have learned how to do, because it allows me to say “yes” to what really sets my heart on fire!
These are good tips. Finding time for yourself is very important, and to have a little bit of a work-life balance.
https://sugarcoatedbears.blogspot.com/
Great tips! Totally agree on all of this! Sometimes life can creep up on us and its great to just take a step back and take care of ourselves.
Agreed! Thank you so much Dawn!
Really great tips and so glad to see you put Say No at the top…. it’s one of the most important and helpful things we can do!
alyson
http://www.themodernsavvy.com
ahh love this! Self health and care is so important. It is so easy to get burned out!
Whit
Oooh I loved this, I think it’s time I do find a hobby and take care of myself more since lately I have totally forgotten that I do exist too. Thank you for this.
You are so welcome, Joan!
I’m so glad you got some time for yourself during spring break. I also have a hard time saying no, but it’s totally worth it. When you feel refreshed and rejuvenated, you can work better and also make quality time for others as well. Thanks for the great reminders!
xoxo
Annie
I’m a huge fan of saying no lately. Staying in and taking time for myself has done so much for my mental health!
Saying NO is so hard – I don’t blame you! Thanks for these tips – they are great!
Great post and great tips, saying no can be hard but it is what may be best sometimes, I am glad you got some time to yourself!
~xo Sheree
poshclassymom.com
These are such great tips! It can be so hard when you have a ton going on – taking time for yourself really is a huge help and a must!
It is definitely important to learn how to say no. Saying yes all the time is usually the cause of my burnout.
I know what you mean, girl!
I totally understand were you’re coming from. I’m glad to hear you said no and took time for yourself.
I love this post girl and I think these are great tips!! I need to go work out and spend some time on myself every once in awhile, It helps me decompress.
Kileen
cute & little
I really needed this post! I’ve been struggling with burnout. Thanks for these tips girl!
Aw I’m so glad to help! <3
It’s a yes for making time for yourself.
Such great motivating words.
Much Love,
Jane | The Bandwagon Chic
These are all such great tips Lizze!! I’m totally a people pleaser too and easily find myself staying up until the wee hours of the morning working on my blog because I love it and want to put as much time in as I can. It’s crazy how we can let ourselves get to the point of a breakdown before we try and make a change.
xo, Laura
Lovely home decor! I struggle with saying no. It’s terrible! However, I am working on showing myself more consideration in 2018.
Happy Wednesday
http://www.lovecompassionatelee.com/thinkoutloud/lady-in-red
Such an interesting article. I know it’s not easy when you’re a freelance… thanks for the tips 🙂
Olivia Poncelet <3
http://www.oliviaponcelet.com
learning to say no was one of the most challenging but needed lessons i learned through burnout. take it one day at a time and cheers to recognizing you needed to take care of you!
Saying no and taking time off are my main ways of preventing burn out! It’s so nice to have a few days to yourself to get back into the grove, relax, and pick up a book!
I agree! Having time to yourself is definitely important!
Hobbies are hard to keep up with sometimes. I usually tend to go for hobbies that aren’t so involved.
I totally know how you feel, I need to learn to say no and take time to myself. I have been wanting to start painting again and need to take the time for myself. Now I feel motivated to do so.
I love your pink couch
xo
http://www.laurajaneatelier.com
Wow these are great tips, I definitely need to take more time for myself!
Saying no to things and people that drain you is so important for balance and self care!
Burn out is so real so we need to build in some self care time to prevent it.
girl i couldn’t agree more! i feel so burnt out right now and like i don’t have time for anything since i’m doing too much! great tips!
xoxo
Victoria
http://www.agallonofglitter.com
You’re such an inspiration, thank you for this advice. It’s so important to slow down and take time for yourself every now and then.
Being burned out is one serious problem. I hate feeling that way. These tips and suggestions are precisely correct.
StyleSprinter Blog by Katya Bychkova