With the new year, the season of setting resolutions has begun. But how can you work toward achieving a goal without letting it completely take over your life? Some goals – research projects, graduate/medical school – can feel all-consuming. It can be easy to get lost in the hustle and feel burnt out along the way. In fact, many report feeling burned out after achieving a long-term goal because instead of a break, there is another new achievement to strive for. For example, after graduation comes a job search and after a job comes a striving for a promotion.
Ambitious people can feel like they are trapped in a wheel of seeking accomplishments. Many great tips on finding balance were referenced in OITE’s blog post here. The importance of setting realistic boundaries was also noted here.
Lofty goals can become all-consuming when one fails to set the proper groundwork first, so some other tips to consider are:
- Set a routine.
Most humans thrive with routines and predictability can help productivity. Find a routine that works for you. If you have a hard time shutting off at the end of they day, set a gentle alarm to remind you to take some time for yourself.
- Check in with yourself.
Getting lost in tasks and to-do lists isn’t conducive to self-reflection. Find some quiet time in your day to notice how you are feeling. If you are feeling irritable, tired, sick, tune into that feeling and adjust your schedule accordingly. Remind yourself that you are a human with needs first and a go-getter second.
- Adjust your definition of “productive”
Many companies have found that employees get as much done in 4 (and even 3) day work weeks. Being productive doesn’t need to mean being ‘on’ all the time. Some people find they do really well with a few jam packed hours or days and then allowing their brain and body to rest on other days. Find the balance that works for you.
