It’s National Workaholics Day – a day where we can appreciate those who work hard, but also acknowledge how detrimental an unhealthy work/life balance can be to both mental and physical health.
Having a strong work ethic is important for your career success – this is a day to appreciate your dedication, and to promote healthy lifestyle choices that will not only benefit your health and career but prevent burnout.
Firstly, what is burnout?
Burnout is characterised by feelings of physical and emotional exhaustion, isolation, escape fantasies, irritability, and frequent illness. This can be experienced by anyone who is continually exposed to a high level of stress. It is typically understood as career-induced burnout, although other types can be experienced by those who care for children. Burnout does not go away on its own, and without help and lifestyle changes, it can have lasting physical and psychological repercussions.
For more information on burnout visit the NHS website
Here are some tips to prioritise your mental and physical health – and in turn, prevent burnout.
- Eat a healthy and balanced diet
Prioritising a nutritious and balanced diet will not only help you feel much better physically, but it can also help you have more energy to work. Your diet can also benefit your brain – with evidence proving that nutrients such as omega 3 fatty acids, flavonoids, vitamin B, D and E help improve cognitive function and can be naturally antidepressant.
The Eatwell Guide is a great resource for helping you manage and maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
- Exercise
Exercise is important for the body and mind, although this does not mean you have to go to the gym every day or even need to buy a gym membership at all – as they can be costly and time consuming. Going on a daily walk, do some yoga, or enjoy a short run – these can be highly beneficial. Or alternatively you can use free and easy to access workout videos on platforms such as YouTube.
A great starting point- 30- Minute Yoga Sequence for Total Beginners
A great dance workout- 30- Minute All Levels Cardio Dance Workout
- Focus on a hobby
A hobby is a great way to take yourself away from the stresses and demanding nature of work life. They can also be enjoyed alone or with friends and family. Try picking up that book you have wanted to read for a while or try a new recipe or learn how to paint. The options are endless – and it truly is a positive way to balance your time and focus on your pleasure.
- Reward yourself and practice self-care
It is important to reward yourself and to appreciate everything you have achieved and overcome. Whether that is writing a list of things of your daily accomplishments in a reflective journal or having that nice hot bath after work you truly deserve. These are beneficial and will improve your mindset, and will in turn, help your psychological well being.
You should also try to practise self-care by developing a regular sleep routine and making time for relaxation through practices such as mediation and try and prioritise spending time with loved ones.
- Seek help
Whether you seek help from a professional, or from friends and family as a first step – it is of paramount importance that people are aware of the feelings and emotions you are currently experiencing. Many organisations and charities that can help provide you with the support and advice you might need to manage your mental and physical health.
If you are experiencing burnout, please reach out:
Burnout Prevention and Treatment
Useful articles:
