Rest, Recharge, and Reignite: Avoiding Burnout for a Fulfilling, Balanced Life

We use the term ‘burnt out’ far too often these days when feeling a little stressed. It has been six months since I was diagnosed by a doctor as being in burnout, and honestly, probably only really three or four months since actually admitting it.

I had my own coaching business, helping others through their life challenges. I walked alongside a good friend who lost her fight with cancer when many thought she was going to pull through. My entrepreneurial husband had more business ideas that he wanted to launch, and getting staff was a challenge, so I helped him for many years with customer service, accounts, sales, and marketing, as well as keeping our home and engaging with my own clients… Man, I’m tired just typing that out!

This season has been a time of forced rest for me because I missed the signs, or maybe I was too proud to admit how I was doing and simply ignored them. It all came to a head when a friend from the UK came to visit and asked Esteban, my husband, if I was okay. His reply was telling. He said, “Helen is okay if you don’t ask her if she is okay!” That conversation opened the way for me to be honest about where I was at. I could see how critical and generally dissatisfied I had become with life.

It is time to lift the lid off this now and share a little more widely. I want to encourage you to incorporate a mix of self-care, boundaries, and intentional rest before things build up in your life.

Burnout: What It Is and How to Avoid It

Burnout is more than just feeling tired—it’s a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress. It can affect your work, relationships, and overall well-being, making even the simplest tasks feel overwhelming. I got to the stage where I couldn't even cook a no-pressure meal for some good friends, yet I still didn't want to accept what was going on inside of me. Recognizing the signs early takes humility and a willingness to take proactive steps so you can prevent burnout before it takes hold.

Signs of Burnout

Burnout doesn’t happen overnight; it builds up over time. Some key warning signs include:

• Chronic fatigue – Feeling drained and exhausted, even after rest.

• Loss of motivation – Struggling to find interest in things that once excited you.

• Irritability or mood swings – Small things start to feel overwhelming.

• Decreased performance – Difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, or procrastination.

• Physical symptoms – Headaches, digestive issues, weight gain, or frequent illness.

How to Avoid Burnout

Preventing burnout requires a mix of self-care, boundaries, and intentional rest. Here are some strategies I have learned along the way that have helped me:

1. Set Clear Boundaries
   Learn to recognize things that feel more like obligations rather than sources of freedom and say no to things that drain your energy. Avoid overcommitting yourself and set limits on work and personal responsibilities

2. Prioritize Rest and Recovery
   Sleep is essential for mental and physical health. Ensure you get enough rest, and don’t feel guilty about taking breaks when needed.

3. Engage in Activities That Recharge You
   Whether it’s exercise, reading, prayer, or spending time with loved ones, make time for activities that bring joy and relaxation.

4. Manage Stress Effectively
   Practice meditation, deep breathing, thankfulness or journaling to process stress instead of letting it build up.

5. Seek Support
   Talk to friends, family, or a mentor about what you’re going through. Having a healthy support system can make a huge difference in managing stress.

6. Make Time for Faith and Reflection
   If you’re feeling overwhelmed, turn to God in prayer. Letting go of stress and trusting in His plan can bring a sense of peace and renewal.

The Importance of Balance

Burnout isn’t just about doing too much—it’s about not having enough balance in your life. Taking time to care for yourself, set boundaries, and nurture your faith can help you maintain energy, purpose, and well-being. Pay attention to the signs, and take action before burnout takes over.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, pause, reflect, and give yourself the grace to rest. Your well-being matters.