I read some posts and yeah they gave great steps on things to do. Some were even things I think I should begin to apply, however, when it comes to burnout, I may have found something I think works for me and would like to share it.
Burnout, for me, often comes from losing inspiration. When we’re inspired, our minds are so busy chasing a goal that we don’t notice the challenges or pain that come with it. But when that inspiration fades, the pain becomes obvious, and it feels like we’ve been burning out all along. The truth is, burnout happens to everyone because inspiration comes and goes especially if we haven’t been trained to keep maintain it.
For example, there was a time when being a doctor felt fulfilling to me. But over time, the realities of practicing medicine in Nigeria, combined with the country’s economic struggles, drained my inspiration. It became hard to stay motivated to save lives. Yet, I’m still here today because of a few key lessons I’ve learned l, lessons I want to share with you so you can apply them to your own life and avoid burnout too.
One of the most powerful tips I’ve found comes from the Bible. It says, “Follow those who, through patience and faith, have obtained the promise.” This is a response to avoiding slothfulness, which I see as a state of burnout—where you feel sad, sluggish, and uninterested in things that once excited you. Burnout can feel like depression, a lack of inspiration, or even a loss of purpose because the thing that once drove you is no longer there.
So, how do we fix this? The Bible’s advice is simple: find people who have already achieved what you’re aiming for. Look for mentors, role models, or leaders who’ve walked the path you’re on and have reached the goals you’re chasing. These are people who’ve shown patience, faith, and perseverance. By following their example, you gain a source of inspiration and proof that your goals are attainable. Their success becomes a reminder that your pain and struggles are part of the process, not the end result.
When you have someone to look up to, your mind stays busy focusing on the possibilities rather than the pain. Yes, pain will always be there—it’s part of any meaningful journey. But pain and joy are connected. Think about motherhood: the joy of holding a baby comes after the pain of childbirth. Similarly, the joy of achieving your dreams comes after the pain of pursuing them. If you keep your mind focused on the joy ahead, the pain becomes easier to bear.
One way to stay focused on the joy is to surround yourself with people who’ve already achieved it. Their success becomes your motivation. As you work alongside them, you’ll start to believe that you can achieve the same results. And one day, you’ll become the mentor for someone else who’s trying to avoid burnout.
So, if you’re feeling burnt out, take a step back and ask yourself: Am I following the right people? Am I keeping my eyes on the joy ahead? Joy and pain work together—they need each other. When you feel burnt out, check these areas in your life and start making small changes. You’ll find your inspiration again, and the pain will feel worth it. Thank you for reading, and I hope this helps someone out there!
Heb 6:12 That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promise. (KJV Bible)
Jaydr