Burnout: Learn to Float Before You Sink

If you’ve ever watched a duck gliding across a lake, it looks effortless. But beneath the surface, its feet paddle furiously to stay afloat. Burnout works the same way. On the outside, you seem fine—managing work, responsibilities, and daily life. But inside, exhaustion builds as you push forward, convincing yourself you can handle it.

Burnout sneaks up gradually, disguising itself as dedication. At first, you skip breaks, take on more, and ignore your body’s signals. Over time, exhaustion becomes your default, but you keep going—until you can’t. The signs are subtle at first: persistent fatigue, emotional numbness, growing cynicism, and a sense of overwhelm. Work feels harder, motivation dwindles, and even small tasks drain you.

If you’re already feeling burned out, the first step is acknowledging it. You can’t outwork burnout. Rest is essential, not a luxury. Slowing down, setting boundaries, and reconnecting with what brings you joy help restore balance. Seeking support—whether from a friend, therapist, or community—can make all the difference.

Ducks don’t paddle frantically all the time; they know when to float. Preventing burnout means listening to your body, setting limits, and allowing yourself to rest before exhaustion takes over. If you feel like you’re barely staying afloat, you don’t have to do it alone. TGI offers therapy, workshops, and retreats designed to help you recover and rebuild. Reach out—we’re here to help.

Burnout: Learn to Float Before You Sink