5 Signs You’re Approaching Burnout

Feeling that we should be doing more drives some of us to keep going as long as we can. This can lead to overwork, burnout, and tiredness. (Shutterstock)

We hear a lot about how entrepreneurs can end up feeling burnout. Unfortunately, all too often, we don’t realize that we are approaching burnout. At least, we don’t do anything about it until we’re in the midst of a breakdown.

If you want to avoid the problems that come with burnout, it’s important to take a step back and look at what’s going on in your life. There are signs that you’re getting close to burnout. When you see those signs, it’s vital that you rethink your approach.

Burnout is never a good thing for entrepreneurs and others. Here are some of the signs you might be approaching burnout:

1. You Have Trouble Focusing

One of the first signs that you are approaching burnout is difficulty focusing on the task at hand. I know I have this problem sometimes. As I get overwhelmed with work, I discover that I spend time scrolling through Facebook or escaping work in a book.

When you find it difficult to focus on the task at hand, that could be a sign that burnout is around the corner. Soon, you won’t feel like doing anything you need to do for your business.

2. You Begin Resenting Your Time Working

When you first started your venture, you were passionate. You were excited to work. Now you resent how much time you spend on your work. You wish you had time to spend with your friends and family, and you begin to resent what you’re doing at the office.

When that happens, you know you are approaching burnout. It’s time to set some boundaries and schedule in some time for relaxation and connection with loved ones.

3. You’re Rarely in a Good Mood

Do your loved ones sense something is wrong? Are you constantly grumpy? If so, you might be approaching burnout. When you snap at your kids all the time or get irritable with your friends, that’s a sign that work is catching up to you.

If you recognize that your relationships are suffering as a result of your constant bad mood, it might be time to take a little break from work.

4. You Feel Like Work Has Taken Over Your Life

When you’re approaching burnout, you start to feel like work is taking over your life. It doesn’t feel like you can do anything but work. At that point, you know that things are a little out of control. While you might enjoy being an entrepreneur, the reality is that you don’t want it to be the only thing in your life. If work is the only thing, that’s a sign that things are out of balance, and you might soon be burned out.

5. Your Health is Starting to Suffer

Finally, if your health is suffering, that is a sign that you could be approaching burnout. High levels of stress can lead to weight gain. Additionally, with work taking over your life, you might not be sleeping as much. That can affect your mental and physical health.

If you notice these signs of impending burnout, it might be time to take a break. Studies indicate that overwork can lead to all sorts of issues, and that can impact your ability to lead.

A well-timed break can help you avoid burnout, refresh yourself, and get you back in the right shape to make better decisions, and find creative solutions to your company’s challenges.

By Miranda Marquit