This is the first year I’ve felt stretched beyond my limits.

While there have been busy years before, this is the first time (in many years) where I’ve felt incredibly burnt out. The last time this happened, I had a wonderful mentor threaten to kick me repeatedly until I prioritized and got things in order.

Others have also shared this plight with me, which leads me to conclude there’s something particular about this year that’s setting it off.

All that can be certain is we need to collectively remember the activities and practices that keep us grounded. We should never be too busy for any of those as the effects of excluding them are detrimental… as evidenced by personal experience.

Perhaps it’s time to remember a simple lesson:

The power of the word ‘no.’

No – there’s no room.
No – it isn’t necessary.
No – it’s only being done out of fear of missing out.
No – I need to consider my values and priorities.
No.

We should always be willing to push ourselves beyond our limits, but be diligent about never stretching ourselves beyond our capacities.