10 Ways to Avoid Burnout

In Demanding Careers

“Are you looking after yourself?” -Moms Everywhere

When I accepted my very first role as a Data Scientist, I was extremely grateful, happy and overjoyed that I had broken into this amazing, competitive field! Eager to learn and very passionate, I often worked well past an eight hour work day. I remember working until midnight some days, completing projects and familiarizing myself with various topics, as I was still new to the field.

My extreme passion for the field caused me to indirectly place my career over my own well-being. I could hear my mom telling me that I need to first take care of myself in order to be able to perform to my fullest potential. This applies to careers in tech, or in any high demand field.

Humans are complex, curious creatures and in today’s fast paced world we often take on a multitude of tasks at the same time. Psychiatrist Edward M. Hallowell has described multitasking as a “mythical activity in which people believe they can perform two or more tasks simultaneously as effectively as one.”

I have put together a list of 10 items that have personally helped me in having a more balanced work life environment and I wish to share my tips to help others.

1. PLAN YOUR DAY, THE DAY BEFORE

Right after your work day, jot down a list of things you need to do or complete for the next day. This will help to keep you organized and focused as well as creating a ‘To Do’ list to help track progress and practice good time management. It will also allow you to visually see a list of tasks and will help you to better realistically prioritize your day.

2. EYE BREAKS

Alot of people are working from home due to the pandemic. I’ve come to realize that Zoom fatigue is a thing.

Regardless if you work in the office or from home, too much screen time, whether PC or phone can cause headaches, eye strain and overall discomfort. Be conscious of how much time you are spending looking at digital screens and be sure to cut down this time. On your lunch break, instead of reaching for your phone, read a physical book or magazine.

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