Burnout is real, and it absolutely sucks. I’ve shared a lot of tips for preventing the burnout, letting life be easy, and letting go of the stress of the little things, but I haven’t shared much about getting through the burn out when you’re deep in it.
It might be hard to take care of yourself right now. It might seem like it’s just one extra thing to do on top of your already overwhelming and endless list, but these tips are going to help. A handful of these can be done in 5 minutes or less. They’ll get the juices flowing to get you back on track and on the road to loving your life.
I talk a lot about practical tips on the healing journey, but I often neglect returning to those early feelings when depression was still my identity to give advice to those in that painful season. I wanna talk to you today. The mom that’s burnt out right now. The one that can’t imagine doing more. The one who’s not sure she’s going to make it through motherhood.
I want to give you some easy, practical things you can do right now to ease that pain and begin taking you a few steps in the right direction, even when there’s zero motivation to do so.
Grace
Start with giving yourself grace. It’s okay to not be okay right now, but don’t stay there. Don’t cling to the low vibe emotions; it’s okay to take the time to feel them. Let yourself feel it all as long as you need to, but no longer than that.
Journal
Journaling can be a great form of self-therapy. Write down what you’re feeling, what you’re thinking, what you’re hoping, what you’re dreading. Start with a brain dump, and keep writing as a stream of consciousness, set a timer for 5 minutes and just note whatever comes to mind without having a need to complete each thought or have an epiphany in the process.
Breathe
It’s the most natural thing for us humans, and yet we forget: focus on your breath. Try to let every other thought slip away as you deeply breathe. Try this simple practice: Inhale for a count of 4, hold for a count of 2, exhale for a count of 4, and hold for a count of 2. Repeat this several times.
Accept help
Let your loved ones step in and care for your home and your kids while you take time for yourself. You can even hire someone to help out, even for just a short season. This can feel strenuous at first, to release the control over all the things and allow someone else to step in and help out, but it is the best thing you can do for your kids, to set the example of caring for yourself.
Surround yourself with positive influences
They say “you are what you eat,” but I like to apply this to everything we consume. If you’re listening to bad news or sad songs, there’s little motivation to feel better. Try listening to positive podcasts or audiobooks, listen to uplifting music, watch happy movies and tv shows.
Overcome the negative thinking
One thing is for sure, if you’re letting yourself think bad things about yourself, you’re going to have little motivation to pull yourself out of this funk. You’ve got to overcome these negative thoughts that have gotten too comfortable in your mind. Whether you think you can, or can’t, you’re right. Change your mind to change your life, friend.
Allow yourself space for comfort
Sometimes you really just need to feel into the funk. Give yourself some time to sit in the comfort you’re seeking. Watch your comfort movies. Read your comfort books. Cozy up in the softest blanket. Eat food that fills you with joy. Share this time with your kids and husband if you’re up for company.
Take a “stupid mental health walk”
There’s no disputing that getting fresh air and vitamin D is good for your health. A simple walk can help increase energy, give mental clarity, reduce stress and so much more. I know that sunshine isn’t always easy to find this time of year in the PNW, but that’s even more reason to get out there and soak up every drop you can.
Get empowered
Remember who you are. Put on your big girl pants when you’re ready and get back at it. It’s never too late to get back on track. It’s never too late to take charge of your life. It’s not too late to be everything you’ve ever wished to be. When the time is right, get up and get going! You got this.
Speak to a professional
If you’re thinking this is more than burn out, you may be depressed or even suicidal, there are resources available today: call 988 if you need immediate help, schedule an appointment with Betterhelp or other virtual services, or find a counselor through your local public school or community organization.
Bonus: Download my free guide The Mindset Makeover and start thinking about the way you think. It may not be the right time for action, but it’s always a great time to set an intention and prepare for action. You got this, mama!
