The Swaying Queen

At my current job, I was once labeled as promising and competent. Promoted multiple times in a year, enjoying the monetary perks and bragging rights. Well, in a world where we live in, success especially at work often comes at a big cost. Many individuals find themselves in the middle of oppressively constant cycle of work, always trying not to shed tears for the sake of maintaining a professional reputation, and extremely pushing their limits to the edge until they get burned out.

This, my captivating journey of a workaholic swaying back and forth on the edge of feeling empty, devoid emotion, and being mentally exhausted; only to rise from the ashes and uncover the elusive balance between work and life.

Let’s start at the breaking point…

Health issues starts to surface. Limited exposure to other areas of daily life. Heated conversation with a colleague which leads to the feeling of frustration. Always feeding out information to others but not gaining additional learning. Evident strains in relationship. And the once a clear path becomes blurred and foggy. No direction at all. Until one day I had to admit it “I am at the breaking point!!!” Physical, cognitive, and emotional fatigue undermines my ability to work effectively and feel positive about what I am doing. Repeated feelings of incompetence and a lack of achievement and productivity. Complete exhaustion becomes a harsh wake-up call for me.

And I decide that “There is a need for change.“

A great toll of work has taken over my being. Self-reflection becomes a catalyst for change and having this realization helped me step back, close my eyes, breath and reassessing both my priorities and plans. Finding out what’s missing and what is holding me back. Going back on track and knowing that promotions are just one of the strings of life accomplishment.

Now, bouncing back from losing composure…

The very first workable solution is to embrace time management. By doing this, I learned to prioritize tasks, set realistic goals, and proper time allocation. It is not about doing more but doing things with purpose. And discovering the power of being efficient rather than working endless hours and accomplishing less.

Next is, setting boundaries. I have come to know the word “off” and “rest day“. Yes! This workaholic realizes the importance of being off -duty and having personal time. My newfound ally opened up a window where I can breathe fresh air and recharge. Rest days allows my body and mind to recover from physical and mental strains. These downtime days plays a vital role in overall recovery. You may also pleasantly find that this even leads to improved focus, energy, and performance when you return to your work!

Saying “No” is liberating. Gone are the days when declining a work request means feeling of guilt and that self-preservation is not being selfish. Hence, it is being giving to one’s self so you give more to others. Saying NO is reclaiming control and authority to ensure that you are reserving energy and safeguarding precious time to things that truly matter.

The “ME” time, is often associated to luxurious spending such as getting a spa appointment, a hotel staycation and the likes. Little did they know that a quiet walk, a sit in a park, a good book, or a bubble bath are some of the moments that fuels us for continued productivity. It’s essential to replenish your physical and emotional energy, along with your capacity to focus, by prioritizing good sleep habits, nutrition, exercise, social connection, and practices that promote equanimity and well-being, like meditating, journaling, and enjoying nature. We have to understand that caring for ourselves is caring to have a sustainable future. It is a necessity, not a mere luxury.

One of the best antidote is revisiting relationships. But with good intention and effort. Rebuilding bridges and reconnecting with loved ones, that was once burned because the center of focus is at work. I started to foster meaningful connections and put the pieces back of my support system that extend beyond the corners of my professional achievements.

Finding time to look for coaches and mentors who can help identify and activate positive relationships and learning opportunities. Seeking out valuable interpersonal interactions and continual personal and professional development which could lead to meaningful diversions such as volunteering.

And there is the NEW CHAPTER.

While burnout can often feel too great to be overcome. But the sense of being overwhelmed is only a signal and not a life sentence. It is a brutal experience can serve as a turning point that launches into a more sustainable existence. Having a career and personal life coexists harmoniously with well-being requires commitment, self-awareness, and a willingness to embrace change. It could be difficult to attain but surely, the rewards are immeasurable.

And gradually, redeeming my true self.