Introvert: are you tired, or experiencing burnout?

I'm tired; I'd go as far as to say I'm exhausted.

And I know many people, especially my fellow introverts, are feeling the same right now - especially those of us using our voices to try and stop a genocide.

We're risking burnout.

Burnout has become a commonly-used term; it refers to a state of mental, emotional and/ or physical stress and exhaustion.

Introverts can be particularly susceptible to burnout due to having a fundamental need for solitude, and the potential stressors associated with social interactions.

Constant exposure to over-stimulating environments can also contribute to burnout, as well as not adequately managing our energy levels.

But how can we tell if we're experiencing burnout, or are just tired? I got you!

Signs that you may be experiencing burnout

• Constant fatigue, often combined with insomnia
• Headaches and/ or stomach issues
• Feeling tense, anxious or panicky
• Being in a highly emotional state
• Finding it difficult to concentrate
• Distancing yourself from others
• Loss of joy/ meaning/ purpose
• Difficulty making decisions
• Getting easily irritated
• Depression

What to do if you are experiencing burnout

Here are some strategies that introverts can use to deal with burnout:

1. Set boundaries:Learn to say no when you need to. Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Communicate your limits to colleagues, friends, and family.
2. Schedule alone time:Allocate time for solitude and activities that recharge your energy. Remember that no plan is also a plan and it's okay to spend time alone.
3. Identify, and manage, energy drains:Be mindful of social engagements and plan downtime afterward. Consider what stresses, or drains, you and aim to limit your exposure to these sources, so that you can make them more manageable.
4. Prioritise self-care:Focus on self-care practices, such as getting adequate sleep (building sleep routines), healthy eating, and regular exercise. Plan activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
5. Practice mindfulness:Engage in mindfulness, or meditation, to reduce stress. Take breaks during the day to breathe and clear your mind and aim to be consciously present when you can. Remember that meditation could simply involve focusing on the sound of birdsong, or getting lost in a dance. Journalling can also be helpful for some.
6. Limit stimuli:Reduce exposure to overwhelming stimuli, such as excessive noise or bright lights. Create a calming environment when possible, or get into nature at least once a day.
7. Reflect on your values:Reassess your priorities and ensure that your activities align with your values. Make choices that contribute positively to your well-being and align with you living an authentic life: you should never feel ashamed of who you are or the need to apologise, or justify yourself, to others.
8. Seek support:Connect with trusted friends or family members for support - the people who truly 'get' you. Consider professional help if burnout persists or intensifies.
9. Plan breaks and/ or downtime:Schedule regular breaks in your routine, or from engaging in activities that are draining you, to prevent burnout. Take time off work when you can.
10. Learn stress-management techniques:Develop, and practice, stress management techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or deep breathing exercises. Learning to self soothe becomes a legitimate super power! Regulating your cortisol levels using simple daily techniques (there are a ton of resources on this), as well as somatic exercises can be helpful.

Remember that everyone is different, so it's essential to find strategies that work best for you and this may come via a process of trial and error.

There is a way forward, and this, too, shall pass.

Please feel free to share this newsletter with anyone it may help ??

Much love,

Sam

__________________________

P.S.?Ways I can help you:

1. Download my resources specially designed to help introverts overcome their biggest struggles?here. Some of them are FREE!
2. Book time with me (limited offer)?here.
3. Sign up for my email newsletter for monthly inspiration and quarterly freebies?here.
4. Connect with me on LinkedIn?here?or via my website?here.
5. Get inspiration on how to escape the 9-5 and build passive income?here.

__________________________

About Me

I'm Sam ? and I'm on a mission to change the workplace bias towards extroversion, to achieve greater, intersectional, inclusivity for introverts.

As well as help high achieving introverts to thrive without changing who they are.

Companies:

I offer consulting, training and coaching for DEI professionals, leaders/ managers and those involved in hiring.

I am also a keynote speaker.

Introverts:

I can help you achieve your professional goals, feel confident in your introversion and be able to step into your power OR I can help you escape the 9-5 and achieve optimal wellbeing through financial freedom.

DM me for more information!