We live in an age of hyper-productivity. The days are filled the brim with to-do’s and calendar invites. Whether you’re in a stressful degree program or working for a chaotic company, you might be experiencing burn out. But what exactly is burn out? Is it just a colloquial term people use when they need a day to Netflix and chill? No. 

Burn out is real. The World Health Organization defines burn out as “a syndrome conceptualized as resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.” They characterize it as 1. Feeling depletion or exhaustion, 2. Increased mental distance or being “checked out,” and 3. Reduced professional efficacy. 

At one point or another, we all might experience burn out. It’s normal and an inevitable byproduct of the hyper-productivity in our society. However, it’s the way we deal with burn out that can make a world of difference. There are ways to manage the stress, the anxiety and the dueling obligations. Here are four ways to help prevent burn out. 

1. Get Organized 

It’s imperative that you stay organized. Without organization of your thoughts, activities, and obligations, you will experience burn out. You may think calendar notifications are only for work or schools, but you may need to use them for other aspects of your life including time with family or friends. When we schedule time for self care, family, and other obligations, we create pathways for our minds to rest. This may be a way to prevent burn out. Organization also means utilizing check-lists, setting helpful alarms, and going to bed early.

2. Find an Accountability Buddy

If you’re at wit’s end trying to prioritize things in your life, you could ask for help. Finding an accountability buddy could make it easier for you to get things done.Try asking a friend or family member to encourage or remind you to do the hard things: going to the gym, cleaning your house, washing your car, or filing your taxes on time, all things that end up on the bottom of the to-do list! For myself, whenever I need to go to sleep early for an important meeting, since I live alone, I have a friend message me the night before and encourage me (with positive vibes only) to get into bed early.

3. Take Naps

You should take naps. I know that seems very simplistic, but it’s true! Sometimes when we are cramming our days, waking up early, doing too many activities, we should take a break by sleeping. Maybe you’re a busy doctor who needs to run to the call room for a five minute nap. Or maybe you’re a busy mom who needs to nap when the baby naps! It’s important to take a break even if it’s just putting your phone on silent for ten minutes and closing your eyes while listening to relaxing music. 

4. Get out of the House!

There are a lot of people who work from home due to remote privileges. Sometimes when it’s hard to get work done in the morning, the best solution is to get out of the house! You can go to the library or a coffee shop or even join forces with a friend to meet at their house to do work. Leaving the comfort of your home with a good pair of headphones and a strict agenda can help you get things done and prevent you from procrastination which can lead to burn out.