The Quiet Signs of Nervous System Burnout
How are you? I wanted to talk about burnout today because it has been coming up a lot in the coaching space. Yes, I know it is an overused term, but it does have real scientific backing. See the works of Christina Maslach for further reading if you are interested. Awareness is often half the battle; burnout does not just appear out of the blue. It makes its way in slowly; we begin to normalise feeling less than great, we put it down to a lack of holiday or a routine out of rhythm. We may even turn it into self-punishment, telling ourselves things like 'I should be more resilient' or asking questions like 'What is wrong with me?' From my experience, I know when burnout is in the room; these are the signs.
A strong desire to quit everything
Increased irritability and a shorter fuse
An exhaustion that ripples through someone
A loss of excitement about the future
Feeling as though you're simply getting through the day. I hear the phrase 'hamster wheel' or 'I am going around in circles.'
Shallow breathing and a constant sense of urgency
Niggling health concerns that won't quite go away
A move away from being in nature, or looking to the intuitive self for answers
What's happening beneath all of this exhaustion and negative self-talk is that our darling nervous system is under strain. We need support emotionally, physically, mentally, and also spiritually. Note: for some with burnout, the idea of needing 'support' can feel triggering. Here to chat if that is you. This is important information. Burnout is not a personal failing, as often felt by the client, but rather it is a sign of a nervous system that has been operating in a state of stress for too long. When we are constantly switched on (which, let's be frank, the modern world means most of us are), our bodies are stuck in survival. The problem is that what begins as a temporary response can become our default way of living. We stop noticing how exhausted, disconnected, or overwhelmed we have become because it starts to feel normal. This is why addressing burnout requires more than simply taking time off.
In coaching, we explore burnout holistically. Together, we look at the patterns, pressures, and expectations that may be keeping you stuck in overdrive. We create space to reconnect with your mind, body, and spirit, helping you move from survival mode back into a place of energy, clarity, and purpose.
If any of these signs resonate with you, perhaps it's time to listen to what your nervous system has been trying to tell you.
If you would like to explore how coaching can support your holistic wellbeing, I would be delighted to hear from you.
Bryony