If you’re feeling burnt out and emotionally drained, you’re not alone.
It’s not always the big things in life that exhaust us, but sometimes it’s the little things we don’t even realize are having such a big impact on our emotional health.
You might be carrying around emotional baggage without even knowing it.
This could come from anything – your job, your relationships, your lifestyle habits, or even your own self-talk.
It’s time to take a closer look at the subtle ways we’re being worn out emotionally.
By identifying these hidden stressors, we can start to manage them better and reclaim our emotional well-being.
1) The “always-on” mentality
In our hyper-connected world, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to switch off. We’re constantly connected to our devices, always available, and constantly bombarded with information.
This “always-on” mentality might seem productive or even necessary, but psychology suggests it’s one of the things silently wearing us out.
This constant state of being connected can lead to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm. It’s like your brain never gets a chance to rest and recharge.
You might find yourself checking your email at all hours, responding to texts or calls instantly, and feeling guilty if you’re not. This constant state of alertness is emotionally draining.
The pressure to be always available and responsive can also create unrealistic expectations for ourselves and others. We may feel like we’re failing if we’re not constantly on top of everything.
This pressure is not only exhausting, but it can also lead to burnout.
Remember, it’s okay to switch off. It’s okay to take time for yourself. It’s okay to set boundaries. Understanding this is the first step towards preserving your emotional well-being.
Related Stories from SmallBizTechnology
2) Saying “yes” too often
We often equate saying “yes” to being agreeable, helpful, and well-liked. But saying “yes” to everything can be a drain on your emotional health.
When you agree to take on more tasks at work, help a friend move, or attend every social function, you’re stretching yourself thin.
You might think that by being available and accommodating to others, you’re doing what’s best. However, this can quickly lead to feelings of overwhelm and resentment.
The reality is, every “yes” you give out is a piece of your time and energy that you’re committing. And sometimes, that piece is better spent on self-care or things that truly matter to you.
- 7 ways to politely get someone to leave your house when they just won’t go - Global English Editing
- People who blame the world for their problems often use these 8 toxic excuses - Small Business Bonfire
- 7 habits of resilient people who bounce back stronger after setbacks, according to psychology - Global English Editing
Learning to say “no” is not being selfish. It’s about setting boundaries and prioritizing your own needs and well-being.
It may feel uncomfortable at first, but with practice, it can become empowering and provide a much-needed boost to your emotional health.
3) Perfectionism
While striving for excellence can push us to perform better, there’s a fine line between healthy ambition and toxic perfectionism.
When we constantly aim for perfection, we set ourselves up for a never-ending cycle of self-criticism and disappointment.
Research in psychology shows that perfectionism can lead to increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression.
It’s emotionally draining because it often involves high self-criticism and constant fear of failure. You’re always chasing an elusive goal that seems just out of reach.
Perfection is an illusion; no one is perfect. Embracing our imperfections can be liberating and can help us to develop a healthier outlook towards ourselves and our goals.
It’s about being kinder to ourselves, acknowledging our efforts, and celebrating our progress, no matter how small.
4) Neglecting self-care
You’re always there for everyone else, always ready to lend a hand or a listening ear. But when was the last time you took some time for yourself?
It’s easy to get so caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life that we forget about our own needs. We may brush off self-care as something indulgent or unnecessary, but the truth is, it’s essential for our emotional health.
Self-care isn’t just about spa days and luxury treats. It’s about taking time to rest, to nourish your body with good food, to move in a way that feels good, and to engage in activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.
It’s okay to put yourself first sometimes. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Taking care of your own emotional health isn’t selfish; it’s necessary. Remember, you deserve care and kindness just as much as anyone else.
5) Living in the past or future
We all do it: replaying past mistakes over and over in our minds or constantly worrying about what the future holds. But dwelling on the past or fretting about the future can take a toll on your emotional health.
When we’re stuck in the past, we’re filled with regret and guilt. When we’re apprehensive about the future, we’re consumed by anxiety and fear. In both cases, we’re not present, and we’re not fully living our lives.
Life unfolds in the present moment, and that’s where our attention should be. Being present allows us to fully engage with our experiences, to appreciate the good and navigate the challenging with more clarity.
Living in the moment doesn’t mean we ignore our past or don’t plan for the future. It simply means we don’t let these things rob us of enjoying what’s happening right now.
6) Holding onto grudges
We’ve all been wronged at some point, and it’s natural to feel hurt or angry. I remember a time when a close friend let me down. I held onto that resentment for years, and it felt like carrying around a heavy weight.
Holding onto grudges can have a significant impact on our emotional health. It keeps us stuck in a cycle of anger and bitterness, preventing us from moving forward.
Forgiveness doesn’t mean forgetting what happened or excusing the other person’s actions. It’s more about letting go of the resentment and pain for your own peace of mind.
While it can be challenging to let go of past hurts, doing so can free up emotional space and lead to greater well-being. Remember, forgiveness is a gift you give to yourself.
7) Ignoring your feelings
We’ve all had those days where we just don’t want to deal with our feelings. It’s tempting to shove them down, pretend they don’t exist, or distract ourselves with work, TV, or other activities.
But here’s the hard truth: ignoring your feelings doesn’t make them go away.
Feelings are a part of being human. They’re a sign that we’re alive and experiencing the world around us. When we ignore or suppress our feelings, we’re denying a part of ourselves.
It might not be comfortable to sit with your feelings, especially the difficult ones. But they need to be acknowledged and felt. Only then can they be processed and eventually, released.
So next time you’re feeling something, don’t push it away. Acknowledge it, feel it, and let it pass through you. Your emotional health will thank you for it.
8) Not seeking help when needed
Sometimes, life throws us curveballs that are too difficult to handle alone. It’s during these times that seeking help can make all the difference.
Yet, many of us hesitate to reach out due to fear of being a burden or being perceived as weak.
But reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness; it’s a sign of strength. It shows that you recognize your situation and are taking steps to improve it.
Whether it’s talking to a friend, consulting a mentor, or seeking professional help, reaching out can provide valuable perspective and support.
Remember, everyone needs help at times, and it’s okay to ask for it. Taking care of your emotional health is one of the most important things you can do. It’s not a luxury; it’s a necessity.
Conclusion
Emotional health is just as important as physical health—and it’s often the unseen, everyday things that can drain us most. This piece aimed to help you identify these hidden emotional energy zappers so you can begin to address them.
But remember, the power to change is always in your hands.
Time spent on self-care and nurturing your emotional well-being is never wasted.
And part of maintaining good emotional health is being wise enough to understand what drains you and brave enough to make necessary changes.
Here’s to living a more emotionally balanced, happier life!
Feeling stuck in self-doubt?
Stop trying to fix yourself and start embracing who you are. Join the free 7-day self-discovery challenge and learn how to transform negative emotions into personal growth.