Burnout Signals by Design
When was the last time you felt like you were running on empty? You know the feeling: tired, moody, and in desperate need of a day to yourself. Did you push through it, telling yourself that you can handle it all?
We all know what it's like to be overwhelmed with work and responsibilities, to feel like taking a break means we're being selfish or that we're going to fall behind. But what if I told you that taking a break is not only essential for your well-being, but it's also a sign of strength? Being overly responsible causes burnout because there’s no room for you to release or process your negative emotions.
Our bodies constantly send us signals, and the more urgent the need, the louder the signals become. These signals may start as minor headaches, brain fog, or extreme fatigue throughout the day. When we ignore these signals or try to cover them up so we can keep pushing ourselves, our body eventually shuts down. It's like a tired baby who fights sleep with all their might until exhaustion takes over and they fall asleep.
How can we avoid forced shutdowns and take care of ourselves without fighting a losing battle? It starts with understanding our energy centers. These centers act like thermometers for our soul, letting us know when we're out of balance.
Lessons from each of your Energy Centers
The Crown and Mind Center - Trying to answer every question or solve every problem that comes your way can lead to confusion and mental pressure, ultimately resulting in headaches. Know that you're not meant to have a solution for everything. Allow curiosity to lead the way.
The Throat Center - If you constantly exert too much effort to convey a message or try to force something to happen before its time, you put yourself at risk for burnout. Remember, silence speaks volumes, and your voice is an investment, so use it wisely.
Identity Center - If you are constantly trying to adapt to a situation that does not match your natural tendencies, you may become confused and lose your sense of direction. This can eventually lead to burnout. Recognize your self-worth and avoid situations that diminish it.
Will Center - If you constantly feel the need to prove yourself, whether it's to yourself or to others, burnout is inevitable. Instead of fixating on the end goal, embrace what the journey is doing for you.
Solar Plexus - If you always prioritize others' emotions over your own, your body may start feeling neglected and you may become ill. Take the time to sit with your emotions and allow them to communicate their needs.
Sacral - When you overexert yourself or take on too much, your body will eventually reach a point where it can no longer function properly and will shut down. Instead of telling yourself what you should be doing, listen to what your body needs.
Splenic - If you constantly walk around in fear or anticipate something bad happening, your body will be in a state of tension. Eventually, the physical pain from all that tightness will take over, and you will start to feel unwell. Avoiding the inevitable is impossible, but when you focus on the good that's happening, you will invite more of it into your life.
Root - When you constantly feel rushed and work against your natural timing, you may become frustrated and experience what is known as hurry sickness. This condition can lead to burnout, physical health problems, and fatigue. Proper time management will help you relax and make time your ally.
Additional ways to avoid forced prioritization
First, stop telling yourself what you "should" be doing and start listening to what your body needs. If you feel the need to rest, then do it.
Second, pay attention to the minor sicknesses or symptoms your body is sending you. These are warning signs telling you your needs are calling and you need to pick up and take care of yourself.
Third, try to incorporate a daily activity that brings you joy and peace.
You’re Worth It!
Taking a break or putting yourself first is not a sign of weakness; it's a sign of strength. By taking care of yourself, you're making space to show up as your best self. So the next time your body sends you a warning signal, listen to it. Your body knows what it needs, and it's up to you to take care of it.
To learn more about your energy centers and how they can help you prioritize YOU while navigating life, download The Energy Guide today and schedule a Human Design insight session.
