Any tips or anyone successfully got out of a work rut / burnout phase? I’ve been at the same place for 10 years and generally really like it. I’m historically the annoying “if you like your work, it doesn’t feel like work” guy. But over the past few months, it’s felt like a real chore and I’m not enjoying it at all.
I tend to average 50-55 hours per week and have recently dialed it back to 45-50 but that hasn’t done it. I’ve tried reasoning with myself to say “it’s just a job, try not to care as much”. I’ve tried taking more time off. But nothing seems to stick. I don’t want to change jobs - that’s not on the table.
Anyone else gone through this and come out happier?
I have a very similar but different situation. I own my own business, which has experienced major growth over the last 10 years but lately I’m constantly stressed and burnt out. I’m financially stable enough to retire and could also hire more people to take some “weight” off my shoulders but there are challenges to both scenarios that I won’t get into. I’m only 40, so I don’t think I’m really ready to be done working for another 10 years or so when my kids are out of high school. I probably experience the most stress dealing with people. Not just my employees but everyone involved with trying to operate my business.
Here are some examples that have helped me recharge and relieve stress:
-Take a vacation with my family or spouse. Always have the next vacation booked so there is something to look forward to, even if it’s just a long weekend away.
-Putting the screen down and doing something outside: boating, fishing, riding UTV’s, golfing, mowing, anything at all. Especially if my kids enjoy doing it and it keeps them off their phones or PS5. My wife calls it having a “90’s day” where we can’t use our phones.
-Going on regular dates with my wife to movies, concerts, restaurants, sporting events, etc.
-Watching my kids play sports or other activities.
-Exercise. I’m not nearly as athletic as I used to be but I still enjoy exercising, especially with my kids. It’s fun to show them I can still play some basketball.
My wife has really been pushing the last two years to redo our backyard and put in a pool. I don’t really want to deal with the headache and expense, but now I’m coming around to the idea. It would be pretty relaxing to have a pool and hot tub. Add a built in grilling area, putting green, and fire pit and it will be a backyard oasis that we can enjoy for many years.