I wasn’t sure if I should write about this. Sharing personal struggles isn’t always easy, and I wasn’t sure if I was ready to be open about what I’m going through. But then I realized something important: it’s just as valuable to share our struggles as it is to share our successes. If my story can help even one person recognize the signs of burnout or feel less alone in their own experience, then it’s worth sharing. So here it is: my journey through burnout.

My Road to Burnout: Feeling Like Everything Is Your Responsibility

For a long time, I felt like I had to do everything. I convinced myself that if I helped more, managed more, or simply took on more tasks, it would somehow make everything better. I was driven by this constant need to please and help others. The problem is, I started taking on responsibilities that weren’t mine, and worst of all, I didn’t know how to say no.

I thought I was being efficient, but in reality, I was running on empty. My energy and motivation slowly drained away, and I didn’t notice it until it was almost too late. I kept pushing forward, neglecting my own needs, and eventually, it caught up with me.

The Symptoms That Took Me By Surprise

The signs of burnout aren’t always obvious at first. It didn’t start with feeling exhausted, although that was a big part of it. It started with small things: irritability, a lack of interest in things I used to enjoy, and a sense of being constantly on edge. There were days when getting out of bed felt like the hardest thing I could do.

Physically, I began feeling tense all the time—my body was telling me something was wrong, but I ignored it. Trembling from stress, sleepless nights, and feeling like I was constantly “behind” in everything—those were my warning signs. It wasn’t just the workload; it was the emotional weight of trying to handle everything on my own.

Realizing I Needed Help: It Wasn’t Easy, but It Was Necessary

The hardest part of this journey has been accepting that I couldn’t do it alone. For months, I thought I could fix it on my own, but burnout isn’t something that heals with willpower. At some point, I realized that I needed to talk to others—not just my team or family, but professionals who could help me understand what I was going through.

Asking for help wasn’t easy. It felt like admitting defeat, but it was the best thing I could have done. A therapist, a doctor, and supportive friends have made a huge difference. Recovery is a process, not an event. It’s messy, and it’s not always linear, but the fact that I’m on the road to feeling better is progress.

Small Steps Toward Healing: Finding Balance Again

I’m learning that recovery takes time, and I’ve had to make small changes to take care of myself. One of the first things I had to do was learn to say no. I had to start setting boundaries, even when it felt uncomfortable. And I had to prioritize things that brought me peace—things like taking walks, getting more sleep, and simply stepping away from work when I needed to.

It’s a work in progress, but I’m starting to see the impact of these changes. I feel like I’m regaining control over my life, even if it’s just a little bit at a time. And that’s enough for now.

A Final Thought: You Don’t Have to Wait to Ask for Help

If you’re reading this and recognize any of the signs of burnout—whether it’s exhaustion, stress, or just a feeling of being overwhelmed—please don’t wait until it’s too late. Reach out. Whether it’s to a doctor, a therapist, or someone you trust, seeking help early can make all the difference.

I’m living through this right now, and I want you to know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to take a step back, to say no, and to give yourself permission to heal. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it.