Recognize the signs of burnout:
Feeling physically and emotionally exhausted
- If you feel run down and tired but are unsure of why, this is a sign you are burning out
Loss of motivation or interest in activities you once enjoyed
- If you feel like your hobbies and activities aren’t fun anymore, and you don’t think they benefit you
Struggling to concentrate or feeling overwhelmed by tasks
- You’re easily distracted by other things and allow yourself to procrastinate
Increased irritability, anxiety, or sense of failure
- Small things make you upset or frustrated, and you may feel like what you’re doing is pointless
Prioritize Self-Care:
Sleep
- Get 7-9 hours of sleep every night so that you feel recharged every day
Nutrition
- Eat balanced meals to fuel your body and support your mental health
Exercise
- Engage in physical activities that you enjoy, even if it’s a short walk or yoga
Set realistic goals:
Break your tasks into manageable chunks. Trying to focus on all of them at once will leave you feeling more stressed out. It might make you feel like what you have is undoable.
Focus on your progress rather than on what you have to finish. Yes, the main goal is to get things done, but focusing on progress allows you to keep moving forward.
Learn to prioritize what matters and what you need to pay attention to. Let go of the less critical tasks.
Learn to say No:
Try not to overcommit to extracurricular activities, events, or social obligations.
- Doing so will put a lot on your plate and leave you with no time for yourself, school, athletics, and other important commitments.
Set boundaries to protect your time and energy.
- Make the people in your life aware of your boundaries regarding social life.
Seek Support
Talk with someone you trust. Develop meaningful connections with people so that you can find relief in talking with them.
Use campus resources: Resources are dedicated to helping students with college life.
Communicate with professors, advisors, and coaches. They are there to help you if you’re feeling overwhelmed and burnt out.
Practice stress management techniques
Mindfulness
- Become more aware of the present and consider the good things in your life and why they matter to you.
Music
- Music can be a good way to take your mind off of stressors. Find music that relaxes or motivates you
Reassess your commitments
Evaluate the tasks you’re taking on and if it’s too much
- If you find that certain tasks are too much for you, work on finding a solution to change the responsibilities you have
Focus on what aligns with your goals and passions
- Find and try new things that bring you joy
Know when you need a break
Take days off if you need them, set time aside on weekends, and consider reducing your workload if you can.
Addressing burnout with these strategies, balance can be regained, making college life more manageable and fulfilling