8 Burnout red flags you need to spot now (before the holidays hit hard)
Don’t let burnout steal your joy this season—spot the warning signs early and regain control with simple strategies.
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Welcome to this week’s issue of Mindset Rebuild’s Mindful Momentum, your go-to for insights that help you stay balanced, focused, and thriving—especially when life gets a little hectic.
Today, we’re tackling a topic that sneaks up on the best of us, especially during the holiday hustle: burnout.
In today’s issue:
Thought of the week
8 Burnout red flags you need to spot now
Weekly recap
Stick around to learn how to spot early warning signs, tackle them head-on, and get back to living your best life.
Thought of the Week
Isn’t it funny how you instinctively know to reboot your devices when they glitch, yet you resist giving yourself the same grace?
“Almost everything will work again if you
unplug it for a few minutes, including you." (Anne Lamott)
In the chaos of life—especially during the holidays—it’s easy to forget that you’re not meant to run on endless loops of stress and productivity. Unplugging isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity for clarity, creativity, and connection.
This week, consider where you need to pause. Maybe it’s a five-minute breather, an evening walk without your phone, or saying “no” to one more commitment.
Unplugging doesn’t mean you’re failing—it means you’re recalibrating. And from that reset, you come back stronger.
Deep Dive Topic: 8 Signs You’re Heading for Burnout—and What to Do About It
Burnout doesn’t slam into your life like a wrecking ball—it sneaks in, one unchecked stressor at a time.
The holiday season, as magical as it can be, often fuels this quiet thief of energy.
Here’s how to recognize burnout’s sly signals and what to do when they show up.
1. Chronic Exhaustion
You’re not just tired—you’re bone-deep weary, even after a full night’s sleep. It feels like you’re running on fumes, and coffee has stopped being your hero.
Fix it: Start by prioritizing sleep like it’s the VIP of your life. Create a wind-down routine that works for you—think low lighting, zero screens, and a good book.
2. Lack of Motivation
Tasks that used to light you up now feel like climbing Mount Everest. Your usual enthusiasm? Gone, like Christmas cookies on a crowded table.
Fix it: Reconnect with your “why.” Why did you start this job or project? Sometimes, the spark reignites when you shift your focus to what truly matters.
3. Mental Fog
Ever feel like your brain is stuck in a snowstorm? Forgetfulness and indecision are hallmark signs of burnout, leaving you second-guessing everything.
Fix it: Take mental breaks. Try mindfulness exercises or even a simple five-minute “just breathe” session. Clarity loves a calm mind.
4. Increased Irritability
Suddenly, every little thing feels like a major annoyance. The family dinner banter? Too much. The email ping? A crime.
Fix it: Step away from triggers when you can. A quick walk or even blasting your favourite holiday tune can do wonders for your mood.
5. Feeling Detached
You’re physically present, but emotionally? Checked out. It’s as if you’re watching your life through a frosty window.
Fix it: Lean on your loved ones. Share how you’re feeling, even if it’s messy. Connection helps melt the icy wall of detachment.
6. Physical Symptoms
Stress isn’t just in your head—it camps out in your body, showing up as headaches, muscle tension, or stomach issues.
Fix it: Get moving. Exercise, even a short walk, can work magic. Bonus: dancing around to holiday hits counts too.
7. Decline in Performance
No matter how hard you try, you just can’t keep up with your usual standards. It’s like trying to sprint in a blizzard.
Fix it: Cut yourself some slack. Progress is the goal, not perfection. Focus on small wins to rebuild confidence.
8. Neglecting Self-Care
When was the last time you did something just for you? Burnout often tricks us into thinking we don’t have time for joy.
Fix it: Schedule something fun. Bake cookies, watch cheesy holiday movies, or take a bath way too long with way too many bubbles. Joy isn’t optional; it’s necessary.
Weekly Recap
In Case You Missed It:
Mindfulness for Creators: The No-BS Science of Success
The One-Minute Breathing Hack to Instantly Calm Overwhelm
The Art of Letting Go
Wrapping Up
Here’s what you’ve learned today:
Burnout is sneaky, but not unstoppable.
Early detection is key to getting back on track.
Self-care is your holiday MVP.
Action Step: Take a moment right now to check in with yourself.
What’s one sign of burnout you’ve noticed lately? Write it down, then jot one action you’ll take today to address it.
Stay mindful and merry this week. And remember, burnout might be a sneaky visitor, but you’re the one who controls the guest list.
Warm wishes (and plenty of eggnog vibes),
Warren
P.S.
What’s one small change you’ve made recently to avoid burnout during the holidays? Which burnout warning sign resonates with you the most—and how are you planning to tackle it? 🎄
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Drop your answers in the comments, and let’s support each other through this holiday season.
Know someone who’s feeling the holiday stress? 🎅✨ Share this post with them—it might be just the burnout-busting advice they need to stay merry and bright this season! 🎄💡
P.P.S.
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