There’s a danger in consistently trying to go above and beyond. When we continue to exceed reasonable physical and mental limits we run the risk of burning out.
But then there’s little but disappointment and frustration in not trying at all. The best place to be is between the two extremes. Finding that sweet spot is not always easy. So many expect so much from us. So many need so much from us. So many demand so much from us.
The problem is that along the way we can lose touch with the person we are and the things that we want. In attempting to provide colour we can become little more than part of a grey backdrop. The more we drain our own resources, the duller we become.
Self care is vital. No-one else can provide it in the way we can provide it. There is no-one who has our best interests at heart more than we have for ourselves.
It’s essential therefore to take the time to make the time for ourselves…our interests, our relaxation, our down time.
Burn out does not occur without warning. Our head and our heart send us signals that clearly indicate we are pushing too hard. We can feel distracted and sad. And there are physical signs. We can find ourselves feeling sicker or sorer.
We ignore such signs at our own peril.
Our bodies are always telling us things about our wellbeing. We should take heed.
Gary Bentley Counselling 