Chapter 1: The Reality of Burnout

As the year wraps up, it often reveals a paradoxical truth about human nature. We tend to overextend ourselves while simultaneously feeling inadequate in our efforts. While I advocate for a smarter approach to work over sheer volume, I believe most of us can enhance our productivity by simply altering our mindsets.

If you experienced burnout in 2023, here are actionable strategies to prevent it in 2024. The key lies in concentrating on what truly matters. Yes, many of us are overwhelmed. In today's fast-paced world, achieving financial stability feels increasingly elusive, compounded by the rapid pace of technological change.

Having grown up during the dawn of the internet, the notion of spending four or more years studying outdated methods never resonated with me. My preference has always been hands-on learning. Over the past fifteen years, I've held various positions, each teaching me invaluable lessons. The most significant of these lessons are:

1. A majority of people feel unfulfilled.
2. Nearly everyone feels overworked.

Most individuals work primarily to earn a paycheck, hoping that one day, they can pursue their passions. Unfortunately, many have resigned themselves to a life devoid of satisfaction.

Recent statistics indicate that the average American worker takes only 20.3 vacation days per year. This statistic underscores a staggering reality: unless you're among the fortunate few who have made a fortune and retired early, you're likely to spend 95% of your life working. Yet, work itself isn't inherently negative. In fact, those who lead the longest lives often do so because they have goals that inspire them.

You're not necessarily working too hard; rather, you might be focusing your energy in the wrong places. I recently came across a compelling advertisement that illustrated the changing landscape for younger generations.

The ad starts with a young couple purchasing their first home:

"1950s: Get a job, save a little, take out a mortgage, buy a house."

"1970s: Get a job, save a little, take out a mortgage, buy a house."

"1990s: Get a job, save a little, take out a mortgage, buy a house."

"2020s: Get a job, save a little, apply for a mortgage, get a second job, get roommates, rent a house."

For younger generations, financial stability often seems like a distant dream, making multiple income streams a modern necessity.

Mental health has significantly declined in recent years, fueled by a culture that glorifies relentless hustle and burnout. Research indicates that around 70% of people worldwide have experienced burnout in the past year. Personally, juggling a side hustle alongside a full-time job has been my reality since 2017, leaving me feeling burnt out for years.

However, after leaving my full-time position to work for myself last year, I've discovered a newfound energy, even while working more than ever. The reason? Burnout stems not from overworking but from misdirecting your focus.

Recently, my YouTube feed has been flooded with videos of CEOs discussing burnout, stress, and anxiety. Perhaps it’s just a trending topic as the year ends, or maybe the algorithm is simply on point. Regardless, I’m eager for some downtime before the New Year.

What stands out in these videos is a shared sentiment from high-achieving individuals. Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, noted, "In my own experience, what I've found is that burnout actually comes from failing and things not working. Momentum is really energizing; the lack of momentum is super draining." Jeff Bezos echoed a similar thought: "Stress primarily comes from not taking action over something that you can have some control over."

These insights made everything click for me. For the majority of people, burnout is often linked to two primary factors:

1. Not engaging in activities you genuinely enjoy.
2. Failing in the pursuits you wish to excel at.

When stuck in a dead-end job that lacks fulfillment, life can feel like a monotonous cycle, leaving you with little time or energy to chase your dreams. This has been my experience for far too long.

But I found a way to break free from burnout through three key mindset shifts. Here’s what you can do this year:

1. Embrace Small Steps:

   Throughout my adult life, I've wanted to work for myself but have encountered various hurdles. Initially, I feared judgment from others. Then, I lacked the financial resources to pursue my dreams. Eventually, after mustering the courage and capital to begin my journey, I realized I didn't even know what I truly wanted.

My life has been a series of discovering what I dislike, leading me to understand how I want to spend my time. While I don’t believe in regret, if I could advise my younger self, it would be to simply take action—any action.

When caught in a cycle of indecision, starting to move forward is crucial. I learned that embracing failure was the catalyst for building momentum. Although I always aspired to be a writer, it took me five years to figure out what I enjoyed writing about. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment, just begin.

2. Release Future Regrets:

   Research indicates that humans respond far better to positive reinforcement than negative consequences. This is why addiction is widespread; we are naturally inclined to seek out pleasurable experiences.

In the past, I wasted immense energy worrying about uncontrollable factors. This incessant worrying led to burnout. If I could impart one lesson, it’s that our bodies are remarkably adaptable. By increasing your workload, your mind will find the energy to manage it.

I remember feeling invincible when I started writing for just one hour before my job. This small commitment reshaped my entire day, allowing me to view it as a win, despite not making immediate progress in my business.

Focus on accumulating small victories to build a cycle of positive reinforcement.

3. Schedule Quarterly Breaks:

   For both your body and mind, taking regular breaks is essential.

In 2021, a figure known as the Liver King gained notoriety for his unconventional health practices. Though he faced backlash for misleading the public regarding his steroid use, one of his recommendations resonated with me: taking a week off from exercise every quarter.

Exercise often felt like a race against time for me, with the constant fear of injury or illness. So, deliberately taking a week off every three months has become a transformative practice.

Life can feel overwhelming when you’re merely going through the motions. Our brains crave change. While routines have their merits, breaking the monotony is vital to reignite motivation.

Taking a week off work, or even just from certain habits, can provide a fresh perspective and renewed energy to tackle challenges head-on.

Final Thoughts: Cheers to a Fulfilling 2024

In life, the steps you take matter less than the act of taking them. When navigating uncertainty, it’s often about the process of elimination. As Sherlock Holmes famously stated, “When you have eliminated the impossible, whatever remains, however improbable, must be the truth.”

So, take action, make mistakes, and as you eliminate the impossible, you’ll uncover your true desires. Here's to a prosperous year ahead!

Hi, I'm Hudson. I write about living a healthier, happier, and more mindful life. To see my stories in your feed, I’d love for you to follow me (Hudson Rennie). If you want stories delivered directly to you, subscribe to my newsletter.👇

💸 Join over 1,000 people who enjoy getting free stuff (online store). 🧘

This video discusses effective strategies to avoid burnout and maintain consistency in your life throughout 2024.

In this video, you will learn how to combat burnout and discover the formula for staying consistent in your endeavors.