Independent on Saturday

Why you need a burnout break

CLINTON MOODLEY

THERE’S nothing more tempting than lying by the pool, cocktail in hand, and admiring the azure ocean in front of you.

You are not stressed and you don’t have to deal with work or home drama, which is why a holiday is a perfect cure for burnout. It allows you to pause, reflect and give your body a rest, even if it’s for a few days.

Challenges

Work and home life can be demanding. You spend days at the office (or at home, working from a tiny desk in your bedroom), juggle household responsibilities and other social commitments. Sometimes it gets overwhelming.

As someone who deals with stress due to deadlines and other commitments, I know how devastating burnout can be. It saps your energy, leaving you unmotivated, hopeless and unfulfilled.

You end up not coping with your stress, which leads to severe issues like anxiety disorders and disengagement.

When you should take a break

I take two breaks a year. The first in July, which is usually for a week or two. The second is during the summer holiday, around December or January, for two weeks. It allows my body and mind time to recharge and to do as little as possible. I usually take isolated trips where I savour the views, put my feet up with a good book and de-stress with an activity or two. You want as much rest as possible, so leave the laptop at home.

Planning

Planning a holiday can be stressful, but burnout breaks require minimal planning. Stick to local travel as you can drive or take a short flight to your destination. Avoid chain hotels with large crowds. Opt for private villas, safari destinations and other isolated attractions. The trip should be tranquil. The last thing you want is to be woken up by kids running in the hotel corridor. Self-catering works well for families or a couple wanting privacy.

During the trip

While activities are a fun way to de-stress, try to steer clear of strenuous activities that will leave you feeling tired.

The aim of the trip is to find balance. You do not want to go back home more fatigued and stressed. Opt for nature walks, boat trips, game drives, beach yoga or spa treatments.

Use the time to find ways to reduce stress when you go back home.

While a few days does wonders for the mind, body and soul, slipping back into the same routine will lead to burnout quicker than before.

TRAVEL

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2021-09-11T07:00:00.0000000Z

2021-09-11T07:00:00.0000000Z

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