Feeling uninspired and drained? You’re not alone. Even when we follow our values, burnout can sneak up on us. A therapist client recently shared, “I know my values and live by them every day. So why do I feel so blah, uninspired, and exhausted?”
The answer? Too much of a good thing can still be too much. As Diana Hill wisely puts it, wise effort isn’t about going full throttle all the time; it’s about knowing when to push and when to pull back. If you’re someone who values meaning and purpose but feels drained by constant effort, these three simple shifts from Hill can help you recharge and turn your day around.
1. Notice What’s Worth It
Sometimes, doing more doesn’t get you more. The key is to ask yourself, What is worth my precious energy today?
Pay attention to when you’re reaching a point of diminishing returns. Some days, getting up early for the gym is worth it; other days, an extra hour of sleep might be more beneficial.
Make a list of what’s worth it to you and what’s not. Here’s a quick example:
Worth It:
– Writing in the morning
– Walking with a loved one
– Cooking for your family
Not Worth It:
– Overworking
– Skipping meals with your family
– Holding onto grudges
By noticing what’s worth your effort, you’ll start making wiser choices about where to invest your energy.
2. Embrace Productive Procrastination
When joy disappears from your routine, even values-driven activities can feel draining. This is where “productive procrastination” comes in. It’s about swapping one meaningful task for another that’s also aligned with your values but perhaps less demanding.
For example, if you’re dreading a big work project, take a break to tidy your space or go for a walk. These activities are still productive but give your brain a chance to reset. The key is to mix things up and add variety to your day.
3. Have More Fun
At a summer retreat, I was surprised to see nuns in robes playing sports with kids. They’d meditate and work in the morning, then spend afternoons having fun. This wasn’t just for kicks; it was intentional. Fun isn’t just good for you—it’s essential.
Creating a “fun file” is a great way to ensure you’re regularly incorporating joy into your life. Fill it with activities that bring you happiness, from low-effort options like playing a quick game to more involved activities like attending a concert. Here’s a peek at my fun file:
Low Effort:
– Playing Uno with my son
– Gardening
– Making dessert on a weeknight
Medium Effort:
– Visiting a farmer’s market
– Hiking with my dog
– Making pasta from scratch
High Effort:
– Attending an outdoor concert
– Taking a painting class
– Leading a retreat in Costa Rica
Letting Go of Burnout as a Badge of Honor
We often think exhaustion means we’re doing enough, but being selective with our energy can actually make us more effective. If you’re burned out, it’s time to add more play and fun into your life. Make a list, commit to daily fun, and most importantly—savor it!