Entrepreneurship can feel like a dream at times. You get to be your own boss, make your own hours, and chase after your passions all day long. But as many experienced entrepreneurs will tell you, it’s not all rainbows and butterflies. Running your own business can be highly stressful, and if you’re not careful, it can lead to burnout.
Burnout is a state of physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can lead to many health problems, including depression, anxiety, substance abuse, and even heart disease. And it’s not just entrepreneurs who are at risk — anyone who works long hours or takes on too much responsibility can be susceptible to burnout.
So, if you think you might be headed for burnout, here’s what you need to know to prevent it.
What is Overworking, and Why is it Bad for You?
Overworking is defined as working excessive hours or taking on too much responsibility. It’s often seen as a badge of honor in modern society because people believe the number of hours you work is directly proportional to your success. But this isn’t always the case; overworking can lead to decreased productivity and poorer quality work.
There are a multitude of reasons why overworking is bad for you. For one, it can take a toll on your physical health. Working long hours can lead to sleep deprivation, leading to various health problems like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. It can also lead to mental health problems like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders.
But overworking doesn’t just affect your physical and mental health — it can also harm your relationships. If you’re always working, you’re likely sacrificing time with your partner, family, and friends. This can lead to conflict in your relationships and eventual estrangement.
The Signs of Stress and Burnout
Now that you know more about overworking and why it can be detrimental to your health, the next step is to learn how to identify the telltale signs. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it may be time to take a step back and reevaluate your work-life balance.
Sign #1 You’re Feeling Exhausted All the Time
If you feel exhausted all the time, even after a full night’s sleep, it’s a sign that you’re working too hard. When you’re constantly under stress, your body releases the hormone cortisol, which can lead to feelings of fatigue. That’s why it’s essential to take breaks throughout the day and ensure you get enough sleep at night.
Sign #2 You’re Getting Sick Often
If you’ve noticed that you’re getting sick more often than usual, it could be a sign that your body is struggling to cope with the stress of overworking. When you’re constantly under pressure, your immune system is weaker, making you more susceptible to colds and other illnesses.
Sign #3 Your Appetite has Changed
If you’ve noticed a change in your appetite, it could be another sign that you’re stressed. When you’re under stress, your body releases the hunger hormone called ghrelin. But it could also work the other way around and make you lose your appetites altogether. This is why the risk of developing eating disorders, such as anorexia or bulimia, is higher among stressed people.
What You Can Do to Combat Stress and Burnout
If you’re experiencing any of the signs above, you must take action immediately to prevent it from getting out of hand. Otherwise, you could compromise your health, relationships, or business. So, what can you do to combat stress and burnout?
Solution #1 Take Breaks During the Day
When you’re feeling overwhelmed with work, take a few minutes to yourself to relax. Maybe take a quick walk around the block or do some deep breathing exercises. It’s essential to give your mind and body a break so you can return to work refreshed and ready to tackle the tasks.
Solution #2 Develop Better Eating Habits
When you’re under a lot of stress, it’s easier to choose convenience over nutrition. But you must ensure you’re eating healthy food that will give you the energy you need to get through the day. So, instead of quick fixes like fast food or sugary snacks, try to make time for healthy meals rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Solution #3 Seek Professional Help
If you’re struggling to cope and have turned to an unhealthy coping mechanism like binge eating, it’s time to seek professional help. You might be able to find a specialist who can help you create a binge eating disorder recovery plan and get your life back on track. So, don’t hesitate to ask for help if you’re struggling to cope with stress or burnout.
The Bottom Line
It’s high time society stops romanticizing overworking and glorifying burnout. There’s nothing productive about working yourself to the point of exhaustion. It can lead to serious health problems, relationship difficulties, and career loss. So, if you’re experiencing any signs of stress or burnout, take action immediately to prevent it from ruining your life.
Identifying the red flags is the first step, but knowing what you can do to combat stress and burnout is just as important. Take breaks during the day, eat better food, and seek professional help if you struggle to cope. Remember, your health and well-being should always be your top priority.
