Your energy levels may vary a lot depending on what you’re physically doing. It may be surprising to consider that your thoughts and feelings also attract and use your energy.
I’ve spoken to a lot of people recently who talk of feeling drained, exhausted and close to burn out but not necessarily linking together that thinking, processing and worrying may be a contributing factor. They are actively seeking physical rest (putting their feet up, taking it easy) but this isn’t necessarily resting their minds (mindless scrolling, back to back Netflix, spiral of negative thoughts).
When I ask “What’s on your mind?” and it then becomes clear.
Worry, stress, processing emotions, confusion, uncertainty, questioning. These things turn over and over on people’s minds. Combined with news stories filling our feeds, zoom calls and endless technology distracting our minds and it’s no wonder we’re feeling frazzled.
Just because you can not see mental exhaustion, doesn’t mean there isn’t one.
Make space for your mind to have a break. How you do that is personal to you; some may meditate, some may walk in nature, some may do a puzzle.
Give yourself a rest from the negative thoughts and repetitive self talk by focusing on positivity.
Remember what you are grateful for and turn your focus to these things.
Create a personal affirmation for each day and set reminders for yourself to say it out loud.
Stop scrolling. Turn off the news. Take a break from your phone. This drains you even when you think it is relaxing.
Be kind to yourself. Do something just for you just because you can.
You know how to rest your body, but do you know how to rest your mind?
Gemma Brown is an associate certified coach with the International Coach Federation, working with people to navigate successfully through transitions - be it career, relationships or life in general. Her belief is that when we confidently bring our whole selves to all areas of life, anything is possible. Transitions exist in both our personal and business life, and so often, the two fiercely overlap. Coaching with Gemma focuses on you as a whole, enabling you to identify your strengths, build confidence and to live a life with increased purpose and direction. Gemma is based in Cambridgeshire and carries out face to face coaching in the area as well as 1-2-1 coaching via Skype and Zoom. For more about Gemma, visit her 'About' page or contact her directly.