Tips for avoiding burnout in our “busy season” from Our Town’s health expert, Ashley Inglese

from Our Town Monthly October 2022

Deborah Ratchford, takes you step by step through the home buying process

The holidays are coming and that means that we are entering the “busy season”. Just kidding, if you’re like me it’s ALWAYS the busy season. We keep waiting for “things to slow down” only to realize that they aren’t slowing down anytime soon, thus we need to adapt and adjust.

Adapting and adjusting refers to your day-to-day schedule but it also refers to your mentality. How are you handling your acceptance and outlook on your day?

Find joy! For me personally, I’ve found myself with a daily commute. As much as I typically don’t enjoy time in the car, I can control my outlook. I use that time to catch up on the phone, find an entertaining podcast or book, or hear all about my kids’ day while we travel to school or practice. I have to find a way to make it enjoyable because I refuse to be miserable.

Multi-tasking! My kids have practice just about every night and you will usually see me walking during this time. I love watching my kids play but I also love showing them that I value my physical activity too. It’s a great way to get a workout in or even walk with another friend who is at the park too.

The risk we take by not adapting to being busy is burnout. Of course, we can say no to things, delegate, and take things off of our plates but it’s also okay to enjoy all of the madness (for the most part).

The burnout is real! Here are some tips for combating burnout: 1. Take a step back! I know that sounds impossible when you have so many things to do, but sometimes stepping away from that project will reset your mind, give you a new perspective, or recharge your battery.

2. Do something fun! That lunch break with a friend or weekend getaway may feel like procrastination but it also may give you the opportunity to have an inspiring conversation or experience leading to more productivity.

3. Recharge! Resting and recharging are two different things. Resting is important but when combating burnout you need to recharge! Recharging is different for everyone but mainly it’s that thing you love to do that leaves you feeling energized and content. It may be paddleboarding, hiking, cooking, volunteering, or whatever it is at your core that brings you joy. Do more of that! It will make you more productive, creative, inspired, and fulfilled in the end.

4. Find a finish line! Is it a project at work or a busy sports season? When does it wrap up? Enjoy the process but also look for the finish line.

5. Set a goal! A trip, a dinner, a few weeks of nothing; whatever it is, find something to look forward to but most of all, find joy in the process.

Ashley Inglese is a Smyrna resident. She is a wife and mother of 2 human kids {Lila, 11 & Leo, 8} and 2 rescue fur babies {Maple, chiweenie & Hazel, tabby}. Ashley owns HOTWORX Smyrna, and co-owner of HOTWORX Marietta Square. She is very involved in the community and loves supporting local schools, events, and nonprofit organizations.

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