If you’re like most professionals, the end of 2021 can’t get here fast enough. You are exhausted.
And that should be your warning sign.
Unchecked fatigue:
- creates the feeling that you have failed (“Why aren’t I energized and more excited about what we’ve accomplished?”)
- destroys your confidence (“I don’t think I have what it takes to continue.”)
- erodes decision making skills (“I know I shouldn’t do this, but I’m too tired to resist…”).
Unchecked fatigue makes you susceptible to misinterpreting reality. Specifically, there is a good chance your fatigue is actually the result of:
- operating consistently at a high level
- stretching beyond what you thought was your potential and learning new skills
- delivering on the high standards you have for yourself.
I just completed a discussion with an executive who was communicating the symptoms of unchecked fatigue (A-C above). Her depressed state was cause for alarm: With the approaching holiday season, the last thing she wanted to feel was down.
After exploring a bit, she realized her state of exhaustion was caused by variables related to her values. With this clarity, she embraced her fatigue and shifted her energy to gratitude.
During this time of year, you’ll likely be focused on giving gifts to others. (Which ironically may add to your exhaustion.) It may be wise to first give yourself the perfect gift: check your fatigue.
Your weariness is likely due to honorable causes. And for the achiever in you, that’s worth celebrating.
P.S. We live in a world of unprecedented change and volatility. You gave a complete effort to do everything you could as a collaborative leader. Which is why our entire team at Verus Global celebrates you and your willingness to lead forward. May you and yours have a rich – and restful – holiday season.
