

Most of the time, we don't recognize burnout until it's too late.
By the time we realize we're unmotivated or depleted, it's already in takeover mode in multiple areas of our lives and we're ready to snap on anyone in our path, if we haven't already. Despite how it might feel, burnout doesn't have control over us. It can only come in and wreak havoc when we allow it.
While it might seem like a sneaky monster, there are ways to know burnout is headed your way, making it easier for you to overcome it. Take a look at the tips below!
Negative Vibes Only
If you find yourself resenting everything around you, and you're having a nearly impossible time being optimistic about even the smallest things, burnout might be on the horizon. Don't take those moments of irritation and annoyance lightly. The truth is, you might feel that way because you're overwhelmed in one (or multiple) areas of your life, and that's the method you use to react, even if it's subconsciously. As a remedy, try taking out some of that frustration at the gym. A good workout to flush out all of the stress you're experiencing can do wonders for you sis.
Eatin’ Too Good
I'm guilty of this as much as the next chick. Emotional eating can come when you're in a really amazing mood and want to celebrate with cake and ice cream (cue Rihanna "and it's not even your birthday") or when you're ready to quit your job on sight so you indulge in whatever carbs and fat you can put your hands on. I can't lie, it tastes amazing, but it's not physically or mentally healthy, and could be a sign you're struggling from burnout. One solution is to discover your triggers for emotional eating and be more intentional about how you respond with your favorite foods. When those cravings come along, a glass of water could do the trick.
No Motivation
When we do the same thing day in and out -- home, work and back again -- it can be difficult to find the excitement in life. Getting stuck in a rut is no joke. If you realize that you're not motivated at a job that you were once in love with, or that it's really hard for you to stay focused as your attention span declines on a daily, you might just be over it -- in other words burned out. It's not a bad thing at all. It happens to all of us. But it can be stopped by taking a vacation, even if all you can do is a staycation at home on a Saturday. Whatever you need, take a break from the grind and the hustle of life and unplug so you can go back recharged and motivated again to do what you love. (Also, make a habit of scheduling free time for you to do this regularly so prevent more frequent burnout in the future.)
Sleep Pattern Is Way Off
If you're experiencing one extreme of chronic fatigue or the other, of insomnia, you might just have too much going on, and could be struggling from burnout. Having no energy and feeling completely depleted for even the smallest things and already dreading the next day before it arrives is a sign of burnout. Another side is having trouble going to sleep to begin with (and that melatonin just ain't working). While these could mean other things, they could also be an indication that you're experiencing burnout, sis. You can prevent fatigue by cutting out things like caffeine and alcohol. You can also try seeing a therapist and lowering your stress levels. When it comes to insomnia, you can get moving and exercise before bed, but also try not to go for that midnight snack.
When It Gets Physical
Physical signs of burnout consists of heavy chest pains, not being able to breathe normally, suffering from headaches and even fainting. It might be easy to overlook some of these things as normal or just how your body operates, but the truth is, you might be doing your body more damage than good without evaluating if burnout could be the root factor. If it is, try seeing a doctor about ways to treat these symptoms and boost your energy level, ultimately winning your battle against burnout.
Going Solo
We all like to be alone sometimes. In fact, some of us more than others. While we can put it off for the sake of being an introvert (raises hand slowly), sometimes even the most social side of us could be going through it. At work, you might find yourself closing your door more often, not wanting to do the regular chit chat with your coworkers and being a little more antisocial than your norm. At times, you could get to the point where you show up late just to steer clear of having to talk to people. If you're feeling burnout at this level, or any level, a break might be in order for you, sis. Remember, there's nothing wrong with needing a vacation. Just do what you feel is needed to get mentally clear.
Your Performance At Work Is On The Decline
We all know when we first start a job, we're energetic, full of bright ideas and sometimes, they can't get us to stop talking. Once we get comfortable and use all of the energy we have to complete even the smallest tasks, it's easy to feel a certain level of burnout. We find ourselves speaking up less in the meetings, and not feeling like going to the meetings at all. In these moments, you can either alter your attitude or the pressure you have on yourself at work, or both. I think one of the biggest lessons learned is that we can't expect someone to look out for us when it comes to our health and mental status. So doing what's best for you shouldn't be frowned upon. Take a break and make your comeback even better than when you left.
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'Sistas' Star Skyh Black On The Power Of Hypnotherapy & Emotional Vulnerability For Men
In this insightful episode of the xoMAN podcast, host Kiara Walker talked with Sistas star Skyh Black, as he opened up about his journey of emotional growth, resilience, and self-discovery. The episode touches on emotional availability, self-worth, masculinity, and the importance of therapy in overcoming personal struggles.
Skyh Black on Emotional Availability & Love
On Emotional Availability & Vulnerability
“My wife and I wouldn't be where we are today if both of us weren't emotionally available,” he shared about his wife and Sistas co-star KJ Smith, highlighting the value of vulnerability and emotional openness in a relationship. His approach to masculinity stands in contrast to the traditional, stoic ideals. Skyh is not afraid to embrace softness as part of his emotional expression.
On Overcoming Self-Doubt & Worthiness Issues
Skyh reflected on the self-doubt and worthiness issues that he struggled with, especially early in his career. He opens up about his time in Los Angeles, living what he calls the “LA struggle story”—in a one-bedroom with three roommates—and being homeless three times over the span of 16 years. “I always had this self-sabotaging thought process,” Skyh said. “For me, I feel therapy is essential, period. I have a regular therapist and I go to a hypnotherapist.”
How Therapy Helped Him Heal From Self-Doubt
On Hypnotherapy & Empowering Self-Acceptance
Skyh’s journey is a testament to the power of tapping into self-development despite life’s struggles and being open to growth. “I had to submit to the fact that God was doing good in my life, and that I'm worthy of it. I had a worthiness issue and I did not realize that. So, that’s what the hypnotherapy did. It brought me back to the core. What is wrong so that I can fix it?”
Watch the full podcast episode below:
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Quinta Brunson Gets Real About Divorce, Boundaries & Becoming
Quinta Brunson is the woman who chooses herself, even when the world is watching. And in her June 30 cover story for Bustle, she gives us a rare glimpse into the soft, centered place she's navigating her life from now. From leading one of television's most beloved series in the last decade to quietly moving through life shifts, the creator of Abbott Elementary is walking through a personal evolution and doing so with intention, grace, and a firm grip on her boundaries.
Back in March, the 35-year-old filed for divorce from Kevin Jay Anik after nearly three years of marriage, citing "irreconcilable differences." The news hit the headlines of news outlets fast, but Quinta hadn't planned to announce their dissolution to the public so quickly.
Quinta Brunson On Divorce, Public Scrutiny & Sacred Boundaries
"I remember seeing people be like, ‘She announced her divorce,’" she told Bustle. “I didn’t announce anything. I think people have this idea that people in the public eye want the public to know their every move. None of us do. I promise you. No one wants [everyone] to know when you buy a house, when you move, when a major change happens in your personal life. It’s just that that’s public record information."
In regards to her private moves becoming tabloid fodder, Quinta continued, "I hated that. I hate all of it."
"I Am An Artist First": Quinta On Cutting Her Hair & Reclaiming Herself
Still, the diminutive phenom holds her crown high in the face of change and is returning to the essence of who she is, especially as an artist. "Cutting my hair reminded me that I am an artist first. I want to feel things. I want to make choices. I want to be a person, and not just stuck in having to be a certain way for business." It's giving sacred rebirth. It's giving self-liberation. It's especially giving main character energy.
And while the headlines keep spinning their narratives, the one that Quinta is focused on is her own. For her, slowing down and nourishing herself in ways that feed her is what matters. "It’s a transitional time. I think it’s true for me and my personal life, and it’s how I feel about myself, my career, and the world," Quinta shared with Bustle. “I feel very serious about focusing on watering my own gardens, taking care of myself and the people around me who I actually interact with day-to-day."
That includes indulging in simple rituals that ground her like "making myself a meal" which has become "really, really important to me."
That spirit of agency doesn't stop at the personal. In her professional world, as the creator, executive producer, and lead actress of the critically-acclaimed Abbott Elementary, Quinta understands the weight her choices carry, both on- and off-screen. She revealed to Bustle, "People used to tell me at the beginning of this that the No. 1 on the call sheet sets the tone, and the producer sets the tone — and I’m both of those roles."
She continued, "I understand now, after doing this for four years, how important it was that I set the tone that I did when we first started."
Quinta doesn't just lead, she understands the importance of curating the energy of any space she enters. Even amid a season of shifts and shedding, her power speaks loudly. Sometimes that power looks like quiet resistance. Sometimes that power is soft leadership.
And sometimes that power looks like cutting your hair and taking back your name in rooms that have forgotten you were an artist long before you were a brand.
Read Quinta's cover story on Bustle here to witness the fullness of Quinta's becoming.
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Featured image by Zach Hilty/BFA.com/Shutterstock