Why Throwing Yourself into Lockdown Work Mode May Cause Burnout

One of the major issues stems from the social pressure that we should all be using this period of isolation to be productive. There is a constant stream of online memes and social media posts about self-improvement and the importance of learning new skills during lockdown. It may seem good natured but what it’s doing is provoking a unique feeling of anxiety that we must accomplish something while regular working life is halted. For many, that pressure is starting to take its toll as the days of the week seem to merge into one long marathon. 

The ‘burnout’ is real, and it has affected many would-be entrepreneurs and stopped them in their tracks. Don’t let it happen to you. Here’s how to avoid burnout and deal with it. 

Take a Break to be Lazy – It’s a tough one, the word lazy. It has its uses but actually for the super ambitious, it’s become a pressure in itself to always feel like we are being productive. In this mindset doing nothing and taking a break is considered a negative. Remember though; we all need rest. We all need balance. During this extended period of lockdown, timetables and even the sense of what day of the week it is has been skewed. This means we’re not making time for ourselves through the fear of being lazy. 

Take time to do nothing. Lay in the sun, binge watch your favourite Netflix series or simply choose a day you are not going to do anything work related. It will do you good, make being lazy a positive and structured part of your work life balance. 

Be Creative – We’re wired to be productive. For entrepreneurs this is amplified. We have a need to build and produce. So, do this instead of absorbing too much. Balance your daily tasks to include creative jobs, even if it’s artwork or producing copy for your website. Or take a break and do a paint by numbers exercise or similar. Create a sense of accomplishment through creating rather than purely by ticking off items on an endless to-do list. 

Recognise the Signs – Are you starting to feel tired, heavy, sluggish? Perhaps you’re having a hard time concentrating on a single task or your mind is constantly wandering? You need to recognise that this is a sign you getting tired. Maybe not physically as such but mentally your central nervous system is starting to feel the strain and under perform. Make sure you’re eating and drinking enough regularly throughout the day. Stay fuelled and if you feel like you need to rest, then rest. Your mind needs relaxation and enjoyment as much as your body does.