Wellness Corner
Conquering End-of-Year Fatigue Written by Jonas Ileka
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ou’re sitting at your desk, surrounded by stacks of paperwork, your inbox overflowing with unread emails, and a to-do list that seems to grow longer every hour. The holiday season is just around the corner, and you’re overwhelmed by the anticipation of family gatherings, travel plans, and the shopping frenzy. You think about all the ambitious plans and new-year resolutions that you made at the beginning of the year. Each day feels like a mad dash to the finish line, leaving you drained and weary. This is the end-of-year fatigue in action. End-of-year fatigue is the cumulative wear and tear that builds up as we approach the holiday season. It’s a blend of physical and mental exhaustion resulting from the demands of work, family commitments, and holiday preparations. It’s that feeling of being stretched too thin, like a rubber band about to snap. Burnout The pressure to meet end-of-year targets and wrap up projects can lead to work burnout. You’re pushing yourself to the limit, and it shows in your declining productivity, motivation, and overall job satisfaction. On the personal front, holiday preparations can add an extra layer of stress. Traveling, renovating, shopping, decorating, and coordinating family plans can be timeconsuming and emotionally draining.
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End-of-year fatigue isn’t just in your head; it can manifest physically too. Poor sleep, unhealthy eating habits, and a lack of exercise often accompany this exhaustion, leading to a weakened immune system and a higher risk of illness. Impact on Personal and Work Life End-of-year fatigue doesn’t discriminate; it affects every aspect of your life. At the office, your fatigue can lead to decreased productivity, errors, and missed opportunities, which could affect your long-term career prospects. It can also strain your personal relationships, as you might not have the patience or energy for the joyous moments the holidays offer. You might find yourself snapping at loved ones or withdrawing from social activities.
