How to Overcome Burnout
I’m graduating this May and feel like I’m almost there, but suddenly I’m experiencing unstoppable burnout. I’m feeling exhausted throughout the day, struggling to concentrate on my studies, and my GPA has plummeted from a 3.98 to four B’s and two A’s—my lowest since middle school. I’ve decided to quit my job and am relying on my savings for now, so it doesn’t seem like I’m overwhelmed with work.
I’m trying to stay active and spend time outdoors daily, and I limit my screen time when I’m not studying. I also make an effort to maintain a balanced diet within my budget. Still, I can’t shake this constant fatigue and lack of focus. With spring break approaching, I’m eager to find a way to address this burnout. What suggestions do you have?
First of all, congratulations on being so close to graduation! It’s completely understandable to feel burned out, especially with the pressures that come with finishing school. Here are some suggestions to help you recover during your spring break and beyond:
Prioritize Rest: Make sure you dedicate time for true rest. This might mean allowing yourself to sleep in, taking naps, or simply lounging without a specific agenda. Your body needs time to recharge.
Reflect on Your Goals: Take a moment to think about your accomplishments and your goals moving forward. Sometimes, reminding ourselves of our purpose can reignite motivation. Write down what you hope to achieve in your last semester and beyond.
Lighten Your Schedule: If possible, consider if there are any non-essential commitments you can temporarily set aside. This can give you more mental space.
Engage in Activities You Enjoy: Spend time doing things that make you happy and relaxed, whether it’s reading, drawing, or spending time in nature. This can help rekindle your joy and enthusiasm.
Mindfulness & Meditation: Practices like mindfulness, meditation, or even yoga can help you regain focus and reduce the stress that contributes to burnout.
Connect With Others: Spend quality time with friends or family. Talking about what you’re experiencing can relieve some of the weight off your shoulders.
Limit the Pressure on Yourself: Understanding that it’s okay to not be at your peak performance all the time can be liberating. Remind yourself that your worth isn’t defined by your grades, and it’s okay to take a step back.
Consider Professional Support: If the feelings persist, talking to a counselor or therapist may provide valuable tools to cope with burnout.
Gradual Return to Work: As break ends, try easing back into your schoolwork rather than jumping in all at once. Break tasks into smaller, manageable pieces to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Remember, recovery from burnout doesn’t happen overnight, so be gentle with yourself as you navigate this phase. It’s great that you’re taking steps to address it, and you’re certainly not alone in feeling this way. Take care of yourself!