And surprise, surprise, this inner tension led me not once or twice but 3 times to burnout. I was in a deep state of exhaustion that impacted my motivation, productivity, and even my sense of self.
If you’re feeling drained, you might be wondering: should you push through or is it time to walk away? The answer isn’t always clear-cut, and let’s be real—no one else can decide that for you. But understanding the difference between temporary fatigue and unsustainable burnout can help you make a decision that actually serves you.
Burnout vs. Temporary Exhaustion—How Do You Know the Difference?
We all have rough days, weeks, even months. A heavy workload, a big project, or a stressful life event can leave you feeling wiped out. But usually, when things settle down and you take some time for yourself, the exhaustion lifts. That’s not burnout—that’s just needing a break.
Burnout, on the other hand, doesn’t go away with a good night’s sleep or a long weekend. It lingers. It seeps into everything. You wake up tired. Your passion is gone. The things that once excited you feel like a chore. And no matter how much effort you put in, it feels like you’re running on empty.
Some classic signs that you’re not just tired, but burnt out:
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You feel emotionally and physically drained, all the time.
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You’ve started to resent your work or daily responsibilities.
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Nothing feels fulfilling—even the wins don’t feel like wins.
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Your motivation is at an all-time low, and you just don’t care anymore.
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You’re more irritable, anxious, or detached than usual.
If you’re nodding along, it’s time to ask yourself the big question: should you keep going or is it time to change course?
When It Makes Sense to Push Through
Pushing through might be the right move if deep down, you still care about what you’re doing—you’re just temporarily overwhelmed. Maybe this is a tough season, not a sign that you’re in the wrong place. If:
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You still find meaning in your work but feel exhausted from a temporary busy period.
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You can see a light at the end of the tunnel—perhaps you just need a short break.
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Small changes (like better boundaries, delegation, or time off) would make a noticeable difference in how you feel.
In these cases, stepping back and reassessing how you can work smarter, not harder may be enough. Can you take something off your plate? Say no more often? Create space for recovery? If the answer is yes, making small adjustments could be the key to moving forward without completely burning out.
When It’s Time to Quit or Make a Major Change
Sometimes, burnout isn’t just a phase—it’s a flashing warning sign that something is seriously misaligned. It might be time to walk away if:
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You no longer feel any passion or connection to what you’re doing—even after a break.
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You’re in a toxic environment that is negatively affecting your well-being, and no amount of “self-care” is fixing it.
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You feel trapped in a cycle of stress and exhaustion, with no realistic way out.
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Your physical and mental health are suffering, and staying is doing more harm than good.
Quitting doesn’t mean failure—it can be an act of self-preservation. Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is let go of something that’s no longer serving you. And while that might feel scary, it also creates space for something better.
How to Decide What’s Best for You
If you’re stuck between pushing through or quitting, take some time to reflect. Ask yourself:
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Is this a temporary phase or a long-term pattern?
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What would need to change for me to feel better? Can I realistically make those changes?
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Am I staying because I truly want to, or because I’m afraid of what happens if I leave?
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What is the actual cost of staying? Is it worth it?
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If I tune out of my mind, what do I fell? What is my gut saying?
Sometimes, just sitting with these questions can bring the clarity you need. And time. Boy, oh boy… Waiting and giving things time is the worst possible strategy for me. I’m way too impatient, and you might be too.
Burnout is a serious sign that something needs to shift in your life — whether that means small tweaks or a major change. If you’re struggling to figure out your next step, you’ve got the help you’re looking for. Book a free consultation with me, and together we’ll explore what’s truly best for you. You don’t have to navigate this alone.
