Burnout

Burnout on the Road

Let’s talk about burnout, it happens, even to the most seasoned travellers. I’ve felt it myself, and it hit me like a freight train. At one point, I was grappling with feelings of guilt for needing rest while people back home were working hard. It took me a while to clear my head and accept that it’s perfectly normal to experience burnout while travelling. Long term travel can be exhausting, and sometimes, you don’t carve out enough time for yourself. It can feel like one adventure after another, each demanding your energy and enthusiasm.

Recognising Burnout

Burnout can creep up on you without warning. The first time I truly recognised it was after we drove from Podgorica (Montenegro) to Teth (Albania). I didn’t realise how drained I was until it hit me all at once. Suddenly, I felt utterly uninspired and unmotivated. Even the thought of exploring a new city or meeting new people felt overwhelming. I’d find myself thinking, “What’s the point?”

Here are some signs that you might be experiencing burnout:

• Constant fatigue: If you’re feeling tired all the time, even after a full night’s sleep, it’s a warning sign.

• Loss of motivation: When simple tasks feel like monumental chores, it’s time to take a step back.

• Irritability: If you’re snapping at the little things or feeling grumpy, burnout could be lurking around the corner.

The guilt of feeling this way can be paralysing. I often thought to myself, “How can I be burnt out? I’m living the dream!” But I learned that taking a break doesn’t mean I wasn’t grateful for my experiences; it simply meant I was human.

Finding Relief

During our time in Kalamata, where our van was in the garage for repairs, I began to notice the signs of burnout I had been ignoring. Luckily, we managed to find a cozy apartment, transforming what could have been a stressful situation into a much-needed respite. This change of scenery worked wonders for my mental health.

I allowed myself to indulge in some serious self care: sleeping in late, binge watching Netflix, and treating myself to comfort food. This time off helped me process the whirlwind of emotions and experiences I had been navigating over the past few months.

Tips for Coping with Burnout

If you’re feeling burnt out, don’t hesitate to take a timeout. Here are some practical tips to help you recharge:

1. Embrace the art of doing nothing: Give yourself permission to take a break. Whether it’s lounging at a campsite or staying in an apartment, taking a day or two to relax can do wonders.

2. Prioritise rest: Make sleep a priority. A good night’s rest can make a world of difference in your mood and energy levels.

3. Limit your plans: Avoid over scheduling your days. Allow for spontaneity, but also for downtime. It’s okay to have unstructured time to just wander or relax.

4. Engage in self care: Treat yourself to your favourite comforts, be it a warm meal, a good book, or a long walk on the beach. Engage in activities that nourish your soul.

5. Connect with others: Sometimes, talking to fellow travellers or friends can provide a much needed perspective. Share your feelings and experiences; you might find others feel the same way.

6. Reflect on your journey: Take some time to think about your experiences. Processing what you’ve been through can help clear mental clutter and restore your sense of adventure.

Conclusion

Travelling is an incredible adventure, but it should also be enjoyable and fulfilling. Remember, it’s vital to take care of yourself to make the most of your journey. Burnout is not a sign of weakness; it’s a reminder that you are human, and everyone needs a break sometimes. Embrace your feelings, give yourself permission to rest, and you’ll come back to your travels with renewed energy and excitement.