Get Ahead of Burnout

Joy here. Today's practice will include some guided journaling prompts. So, if you can, grab your journal or a piece of paper you can write on. Today's exercise is also really powerful if you're able to say a few things out loud to yourself. So, feel free to hit pause if you need to get your materials or move to a different space. And if journaling isn't available to you, you're welcome to reflect mentally today. I'm so grateful that you're joining me today. Being here is an act of love to yourself. It's you looking out for your own wellbeing, and that's so important to do. I was reminded of this recently when I came across a tweet from therapist Katrina Leggins. The tweet reads, "When you don't slow down by choice, your body can make you slow down by force. Make self-care and rest a priority." Whew! What an incredible reminder of the power and importance of caring for ourselves. I like how Katrina frames self-care and rest as non-negotiable. We can't keep going and going. We're going to need to pause and breathe. What's up to us is if we decide to intentionally slow down or if our bodies decide for us. And I know for me, I'd much rather slow down by choice, not by force. We get better at that by learning how to check in with ourselves, reflecting on our stress levels, sense of connection, and quality of rest can let us know if we're starting to burn out. When one or all three of those areas feel challenging, it doesn't mean we're failing. It's just an indicator to take a step back and care for ourselves. Today, let's check in with your body and mind right now and see what you need. Let's begin. Take a moment to get comfy and settle into your body. You can gently let your eyes close or just soften your gaze. And really feel your feet or your seat pressing down into the floor. Your body is soft and relaxed. And now let's take three deep breaths together, breathing in and out. In and out. In and out. Let your breath return to its normal rhythm. If you're journaling today, open your eyes and grab your materials. If you're reflecting mentally, feel free to keep them closed. Start to tune inwards. Ask yourself, "How do I feel?" Try labeling how you're feeling as honestly as you can. Name that specific emotion. And to take it one step further, ask yourself, where does the feeling live in your body? If it was a color or a shape, what would it be? Take the next minute to write or reflect on how you're feeling today. All right, now let's check in more specifically with some of those burnout indicators. Ask yourself, "Have I felt stressed or overwhelmed lately?" Reflect on how full your plate has felt. You could even draw a picture of a plate and shade in where...