Understanding Burnout

"Put on your oxygen mask first."

Before the pandemic, my life at the corporate office was a whirlwind of relentless work. For nearly six months, I pushed myself to the limit, often sacrificing weekends to secure a promotion and bonus. The constant grind left me utterly drained, prompting me to question the path I was on.

Years later, I still reflect on those choices. Would a short break—just one or two weeks—have made a difference for my well-being and relationships? Absolutely. Taking time for yourself, friends, and family is essential; after all, health should always come first.

My fixation on bonuses clouded my judgment. Despite my relentless efforts, I found myself burnt out, struggling to think clearly, and watching my productivity plummet. I became irritable around friends and family, experiencing fatigue that accumulated over months.

As the months passed, I noticed a disturbing lack of creativity and new ideas. Even working long hours—over 10 a day—could not reverse the decline in my effectiveness. A stark wake-up call came when I developed a mysterious pain beneath my right ribcage, leading to a CT scan that revealed the need for a significant break to recover.

Through this challenging experience, I learned the critical importance of prioritizing my health above all else. Why? Because only by being healthy and happy can I truly support others. Taking care of my physical and mental well-being is not selfish; it’s a vital responsibility.

It's crucial to set boundaries and avoid falling into the trap of overcommitment. As Gwyneth Paltrow famously said, taking care of yourself is akin to putting on your oxygen mask first on a plane.

Thank you for reading, and remember to prioritize your well-being!

The first video, "Burnout Can Destroy You — Here's How to Deal with It," delves into effective strategies to combat burnout and reclaim your life.