The modern woman has proven her ability to be prolific in all areas of life. Like a chameleon with the ability to change depending on its environment, women are able to take on different roles to cater to the needs of their family, workplace and social life. But what happens when your work-life balance starts to topple over? Well, this is a sign that you could be experiencing burnout. According to the American Psychological Association, women are more likely to report emotional and physical symptoms of stress compared to men. Luckily, you don’t have to continue with this problem for the rest of your life. Here are 5 effective ways to manage stress and avoid burnout as a working mum:
Many times, you could be encountering burnout because you’re trying to live someone else’s life. Just because your friend or neighbor is seemingly able to juggle a million responsibilities at a go, this doesn’t mean that you should pressure yourself to do the same. Always stick to your lane and only do what works for you.
2. Find a support system
No mum is an island, and often times, it takes a village to raise a family. So, find your clan and don’t be afraid to lean on them for support. Many women feel the need to perform every single task on their own because they’re afraid that delegating duties is a sign of weakness. In reality, you need to understand that it is virtually impossible for you to complete all your tasks without outside help. So, be intentional about seeking assistance when you need it. This could mean asking your spouse to pick the kids or hiring a part-time nanny.
3. Take care of your health
At times, burnout can result from an unhealthy lifestyle. Binge eating and lack of exercise can leave you feeling tired and unmotivated. So, if you want to have enough energy for your busy lifestyle, then you need to ensure that your body is in optimal working condition. DadQuarters is an informative website that offers health and fitness tips. It even had some ideas for moms looking to lose weight.
4. Take time off
Every once in a while, it is important for you to take time to relax and unwind. When you start feeling the signs of stress and burnout, ensure that you schedule some time off as soon as possible. This could be in form of a weekend spa treat or a mini-vacation without the kids.
5. Avoid procrastination
Each day, make a list of the main tasks that you need to complete and start working on them immediately. Procrastination is truly the thief of time. Piling up activities will only lead to more stress and burnout. So, stay consistent with your schedule and always look for ways to save time.
With these simple guidelines, you will be able to achieve optimum productivity and overall success in your journey as a working mum.
