You wake up tired. You go to bed even more so. The thought of another workday fills you with dread. But the bills keep coming. And the job hunt? That takes energy you don’t have.
This is where many people find themselves, trapped between burnout and the realities of needing a steady income. You don’t hate your job. But you’re worn out. And the idea of finding something new feels like climbing a mountain without sleep.
So what can you do when you’re too tired to leave, but too drained to keep going like this?
1. Stop blaming yourself
This isn’t about weakness. You’re not lazy or broken. You’re depleted. That’s different. Chronic stress, lack of control, or a mismatch in values can gradually wear down even the most resilient person.
2. Make micro-adjustments
You may not be able to quit, but can you renegotiate a deadline? Skip a meeting that adds no value? Take your lunch break properly? Set clearer boundaries on your time? Tiny shifts can create breathing room.
3. Use energy strategically
Save your best energy for what truly matters. That might mean letting go of perfection on some tasks, or not volunteering for every extra responsibility. Prioritise survival over striving.
4. Rest when you can, even in short bursts
If a sabbatical or break isn’t possible, find recovery in small ways. Ten minutes outside. An early night. Logging off on time. These moments matter.
5. Talk to someone
Burnout thrives in isolation. A counsellor, coach, friend, or trusted colleague can help you make sense of what’s going on, and what might help. You don’t have to figure it out alone.
6. Don’t rule out change, just don’t rush it
If the idea of job hunting feels impossible right now, park it. But don’t bury it. When you have even a little more energy, start gathering information, quietly, gently. A new opportunity may take time, but knowing you have options can help you cope now.
This isn’t forever. It’s a season. A hard one, yes, but not a permanent state. Right now, your task isn’t to leap into a new life. It’s to care for yourself within the one you’ve got, and know that change is still possible, even if it takes a while.
