Tips For Battling Autumn Burnout, A Seasonal Struggle That Can Leave You Feeling Totally Exhausted And Unmotivated
The following column is the opinion and analysis of the writer. For many of us, fall marks a time of coziness, comfort, and retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the warmer months.
Yet, the season can simultaneously be a struggle, making you feel unmotivated in both your personal and professional life.
If you can relate, you may be a victim of “autumn burnout,” in which the switch from summer to fall makes you feel exhausted physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Some people experience this as a result of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). But even if you don’t have SAD, you can still suffer from autumn burnout due to the heightened expectations of fall that compete with our body’s biological clock.
This past summer, you might’ve kicked back at the beach, soaked up some vitamin D, and enjoyed long, warm evenings. Now, we are suddenly forced to spend more time inside amidst shorter days and chilly temperatures.
The stark decrease in sunlight and physical activity can impact our energy, as well as make it tough for us to feel motivated to achieve our goals.
Not to mention, the transition from summer to fall is arguably the most significant seasonal shift of the year, and if you have any anxiety related to change, it can be overwhelming.
Are You A Victim Of Autumn Burnout?
The symptoms can, of course, differ from person to person, but there are some telltale signs.
Syda Productions – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
First, you might be dealing with autumn burnout if you feel particularly tired and unmotivated. Are you seriously overwhelmed looking at your calendar and finding it tough to finish typical tasks?
Plus, even after getting a solid night’s sleep, are you still fighting decreased inspiration and drive? If so, you’re probably feeling burnt out.
Speaking of sleep, your rest may be interrupted during times of stress due to the release of cortisol and adrenaline, both of which set off a fight-or-flight response in your body.
Burnout can make it harder to fall asleep and even tougher to stay slumbering.
At work, you may also be less driven. Even if you love what you do and are passionate about your job, burnout can leave you indifferent or even frustrated, wrestling with deadlines or decreased productivity.
Last but not least, your mood on a daily basis will probably take a hit if you’re suffering from burnout. You might find that you’re more irritable, disengaged, and pessimistic.
How To Better Your Mental Health In The Face Of Autumn Burnout
One of the best things you can do for your psyche during the fall is prioritize your overall health. To combat the shorter days and lack of physical activity, try to get outside for a walk in the afternoon and hit the gym on a regular basis.
Additionally, don’t forget to fuel your body with good food and ensure you’re drinking enough water. If you’re in the thick of mental exhaustion, these tasks could seem really intimidating. However, they represent concrete action items you can immediately begin working on.
Don’t forget to take stock of your work-life balance, either. Letting your professional life bleed into your personal life can disrupt your routine and hinder your mental well-being.
Set boundaries, such as clocking out at a reasonable time and allowing your weekends to be filled with “you time.” You can even incorporate more self-care-oriented activities into your workdays.
Cook yourself a nice breakfast before driving to the office, or look forward to reading and unwinding before bed.
Last but not least, you must remain connected with those you care about. In times of burnout, it can become so easy to isolate yourself, especially in the wake of the impending busy holiday season.
Regardless, talk to your friends and family anyway. Make plans to meet up when you can, or even just chat with them over text. No matter how you choose to connect, these links will remind you that you’re never alone.
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