Burn out. This is something many people that go go go experience at some point. It happens when you don’t allow yourself to do anything other than your work, so the thing you love becomes a chore- a daily task that you do because you have to. After the humongous rush I had over Christmas, it hit me. I had been staying up until 3 or 4am every single night trying to get work done for everyone. My to-do list was a mile long, and each time I could mark off one thing, three would be added. Right when I got caught up, something would happen and I’d fall back down again. It also didn’t help to find out that I am pretty deficient in iron and vitamin D, so that’s two other big whammies hitting me with a lack of energy (did I really just use that word?).
Every single day I felt as though I was forcing myself to do everything. Forcing myself to get up, to get ready, to edit… I was so worn out and never had time for anything. On top of this, more and more things started happening that were out of my control that really set me back. But it’s life. It happens.
For those in similar situations, I would suggest reevaluating your daily routine. Once I did this, I began feeling accomplished in my daily tasks. I would set out a list of when everything was due, everything that was coming up, figure out an expected time-frame each would take, and I would plan certain tasks for certain days. Being able to see everything in front of you and mark them off one at a time helps to feel like you’re getting somewhere while also placing your workload directly in your face so you can see if you’re overworking yourself.
Allow time for yourself, and plan out things that make you happy. Set limits. This is where I failed myself because I never said no to anyone, and I did everything they asked constantly without providing myself with a spare moment to even breathe. Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE photography, but you need to do other things you love as well. For me, I began incorporating a little shopping, doing manicures/pedicures, getting together with friends and going out a couple times a week, taking a day trip to somewhere especially if that means not having any service because then it forces you to not do any work other than enjoy where you are. Yoga and pilates are a favorite of mine too, and it allows your body to feel refreshed.
As a photographer, you spend SO much of your time doing everything for others, but you still need to remember to take a step back and do things for yourself too. Sure my workflow hasn’t been as quick, but I now have those moments to myself I was lacking. Lastly, I suggest jumping outside your comfort zone and normal sessions – get creative and do something you have wanted to do but haven’t! Opening up that creativity from time to time is always a great and exciting way to still do your work, but in a different way and to unleash part of who you are.
I hope this little bit of advice is able to help some of you that may be dealing with this. Have a great week, everyone 🙂