How New Beginnings Can Help You Deal With Burnout

NEW BEGINNINGS : Why New Beginnings?

That’s life… that’s what people say.  You know the song from ‘ol blue eyes, Frank Sinatra.  That’s the thing about life isn’t it?  It changes, with ebbs and flows and nothing is guaranteed.

So, what happens when life decides to knock you upside the head and you’re faced with new beginnings?  Well, you embrace them of course.  Let’s face it, change is difficult and certain changes can seriously challenge your resolve.  That being said, this is why I like and embrace new beginnings.

A Journey

For as long as I can remember, I’ve battled a little, well a lot, actually with consistency and routine.  I get bored easily and like to be challenged.  I also clash with corporate culture and authority and the older I’ve become, the more I’ve kicked back against the rules.  It’s not arrogance, nor ego.  It’s incessant determination and ambition.  I don’t settle and thus prefer to march to the beat of my own drum.  Admittedly, some of my decisions haven’t been the right ones and I should’ve zigged where I’d zagged, but, somehow, I always found the strength to bounce back and make things happen!

That’s the thing about new beginnings though.  It’s another opportunity to try your hand at that hobby, project or entrepreneurial spirit.  Sure, it takes guts, sweat and at times many tears to push through, but I think it’s worth it.  There’s a feeling of accomplishment when you’re challenged and pushed beyond the realm of your comfort zone.

I recently effected just such a change in my own life.  I was blessed to be employed by a company and initially the tasks were good for me as I had to learn new systems, processes and procedures very quickly.  At times I felt like the proverbial duck – all was calm on the surface, but below the water I was paddling for all my worth.  Just short of the two-year mark I decided to see my doctor as I was facing major burnout.  My doctor booked me off for two weeks and in that time, I had to make some serious decisions about my health and my career.  I took a bold leap and decided to resign and go solo.  As is the norm, my decision was met with disdain and many ‘how could you?’ comments, especially in this volatile employment market.  I dug my heels in though and knew, that with hard work and determination, I would make it on my own.

Finding Your Mojo

So, where to now? Onwards and upwards I say.  I’ve had sleepless nights worrying about the finances and ‘job security’, but through it all, I have trusted myself enough to know that I would make it.  Work would be sent my way.  I am sincerely grateful for the opportunities bestowed upon me.  In a competitive, global market, I have clients who choose me to assist them.  This is a big deal and I take my responsibilities and service offerings seriously.  The power of networking and taking the risk has paid off.

Ultimately, change is the only constant in our lives.  We live in a world of technological advancement that can be terribly daunting and render one feeling lost and vulnerable.  Take the challenges a day at a time and keep setting goals for yourself.  If needs be, engage with a mentor or coach to assist with those hurdles.  They’re always going to be there, it’s how you jump them that matters.

Lastly, find your mojo!  Be confident and know you make a difference!