Burnout Season: Finding Balance Before the Holidays

As we inch closer to the festive season and year-end deadlines, there’s a familiar buzz in the air, a mix of excitement and exhaustion. It’s that time of year when many of us summon the last gust of wind in our lungs to persevere until the holidays. But in doing so, we often tread dangerously close to burnout.

The run-up to Christmas or the end of the year can be a prime time for overextending ourselves, mentally and physically. The push to finish strong, meet targets, and tie up loose ends can leave us drained, and sadly, this exhaustion doesn’t just evaporate when the holidays arrive. It lingers, diminishing our ability to truly enjoy the break we’ve worked so hard to earn.

The Cost of Perseverance at All Costs

Burnout isn’t just a fleeting feeling of tiredness. It’s a deeper, more insidious state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. Left unchecked, it can manifest in ways that go beyond fatigue—affecting our health, relationships, and overall wellbeing.

As someone who has recently experienced the physical toll of mental stress in the form of Bell's Palsy, I’ve learned firsthand how our bodies have a way of forcing us to take stock when we don’t listen to the warning signs. It was a humbling moment and a reminder that powering through at the expense of our health isn’t sustainable.

The Role of an Equitable and Inclusive Culture

In an equitable and inclusive work environment, burnout shouldn’t be the norm or an expected price of success. True inclusivity means fostering a culture where:

• Bad days are acknowledged: Everyone has them, and it’s okay to take a step back and breathe.
• Support is mutual: We lean on our colleagues and team when the load feels too heavy.
• Balance is encouraged: Prioritising rest and recovery is seen as a strength, not a weakness.

A workplace that genuinely values its people understands that a healthy, happy team is more productive and innovative. We shouldn’t just be celebrating wins, we should also celebrate the moments when someone takes a step back to recharge.

Preventing Burnout: Evening Out the Curve

The key to avoiding burnout lies in evening out the peaks and troughs of effort throughout the year. Instead of sprinting until we collapse, we need to prioritise sustainable rhythms of work and rest. Here’s how we can start:

1. Learn to say no: Overcommitting is a surefire way to overextend. Focus on what truly matters.
2. Ask for help: I’ll admit—I’m not always good at this. But having a supportive team that genuinely cares has made all the difference. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to reach out.
3. Prioritise self-care: Taking time to breathe, stretch, or even just step away from the desk isn’t indulgent; it’s essential.
4. Communicate openly: Share how you’re feeling with your team. Chances are, they’ll empathise and offer support.
5. Plan for the breaks: The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed. Arrive at it with energy left to truly relax and connect with loved ones.

Why Balance Matters

When we prioritise balance, the rewards are immense. Instead of collapsing into the holiday season with a sigh of relief, we can enter it with excitement and energy. Time with family and friends feels more meaningful when we’re present, not just recovering.

As we approach the end of the year, let’s commit to looking out for each other. Whether it’s a colleague who seems overwhelmed or ourselves when we feel the pressure mounting, let’s lean into the support systems around us.

In my role, I’m incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by a team that truly cares, not just about the work we do, but about each other as people. It’s this kind of environment that reminds me why I love what I do and why I’m passionate about creating a culture where nobody feels alone in their challenges.

Let’s take stock, slow down, and prioritise what really matters. The work will still be there tomorrow, but your health and wellbeing deserve attention today.

Here’s to a healthier, happier holiday season, for all of us.