After winter break, students find it challenging to get back in a routine schedule. It can be draining finding ways to overcome the feeling of a “burnout.” Going back to long hours of schoolwork, mentally demanding schedules, and social-life imbalances can be testing. It’s important to realize that you’re not alone. Understanding the signs of a burnout can lead to overcoming it!
- Recognize The Signs
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The first step to overcoming a burnout is recognizing the signs of a burnout. Many students often feel unmotivated, even tired when returning back to the school grind. This is a sign of emotional exhaustion. Others feel a lack of ability to focus. It can be difficult focusing on schoolwork 24/7 after a long break of doing nothing related. Understand that it’s okay to feel helpless or detached. These feelings are normal and very much recoverable with the right steps.
- Screen Time
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Putting down the phone can be crucial to recovering from a state of burnout. Breaking bad habits regarding screen time will allow for more time to focus on other things. Before you go to bed and when you wake in the morning, practice not reaching for the phone. Get up, stretch, write in a journal, say your daily affirmations, and focus your attention elsewhere. Convieniently, iPhones actually allow you to set restrictions on apps during certain timeframes. I recommend using this feature to focus on schoolwork!
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Take Breaks
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Yes, focusing on your schoolwork is important, but taking mental health days are just as critical. Understanding when a break is needed can help rejuvenate mental stability. Your body needs to de-stress. It’s important to not feel guilty for this! Determining whether you’re burnt-out or actually needing a break has to happen for recovery to occur.
- Rethink Your Goals
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Is your schoolwork aligning with your goals? Make sure you’re putting time into something that has meaning to your future. Rethinking your goals can also motivate you as well. Create mission statements or vision boards to give you a clear path. This can help you find things you’re missing, and figure out what needs to happen next!
- Change of Scenery
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Changing up your workplace can be beneficial for more stimulation. Move your bed around, reorganize drawers, or put new things on your wall! Creating a safe and comfortable space to be in is critical.