Navigating Burnout: Lessons Learned and How to Prioritize Self-Care in 2024
With the warmer temperatures and longer days, it feels like Spring is just around the corner. But amidst all the hustle and bustle, I wanted to take a moment to check in and share a little bit about what's been going on behind the scenes since our last conference.
In 2023, fresh off maternity leave and eager to dive back into work and conference planning, I found myself facing a familiar foe: burnout. Yep, you read that right—again.
I jumped back into the swing of things too quickly, too eagerly, and before I knew it, I hit a wall. Sound familiar?
Juggling the demands of work, family, and personal care felt like a Herculean task, especially with baby chats covered in spit-up and never-ending to-do lists. I was pouring out more than I was pouring in, and it wasn't sustainable.
At the Fill Your Cup Conference, I shared openly and honestly about my struggles, hoping to connect with others who might be feeling the same way. And you know what? I wasn't alone.
During my keynote, I asked everyone to close their eyes and gauge where their cup levels were. The overwhelming consensus? Many of us were running on empty.
But you know what else happened at the conference?
We laughed.
We cried.
We hugged.
We danced.
We tossed confetti.
We listened.
We shared vulnerable parts of our stories.
We made new lifelong friendships.
It was beautiful, and I wouldn't trade those moments for anything.
So what did I learn from this experience? Here is how I navigated burnout (again) and a couple of helpful tips to keep us prioritizing self-care in 2024—together!
1. Recognizing the Signs
Burnout doesn't happen overnight. It creeps up on you when you least expect it. Pay attention to the warning signs and listen to your body when it's telling you to slow down.
2. Prioritizing Self-Care
Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. Take time to rest, recharge, and reconnect with what brings you joy. Whether it's taking a bubble bath, going for a walk, or simply saying no to extra commitments, make self-care a non-negotiable.
3. Embracing Vulnerability
It's okay to ask for help. Lean on friends and loved ones for support, and don't be afraid to share your struggles openly and honestly. Vulnerability can be a powerful tool in your healing journey.
4. Finding Strength in Community
You're not alone on this journey. Reach out to others who may be going through similar struggles, and lean on each other for support. Together, we're stronger. If you’re actively looking for community, we will be getting together in person on March 8th for International Women’s Day. You can grab your ticket here.
So there you have it—my journey through burnout and the lessons I learned along the way. Remember, you're not alone, and there's always light at the end of the tunnel. Take care of yourself, and remember to prioritize your well-being above all else.
As you journal this week, here are a few questions to consider:
Reflect on past experiences of burnout and identify warning signs and responses.
Consider your support network and how you can cultivate deeper connections.
Visualize your ideal self-care routine and explore ways to prioritize well-being and pursue goals with clarity.