You slumped into December feeling overworked and frazzled and promised yourself that this year will be different. That you won’t succumb to the culture of busyness and will protect your time, space and energy. The first step in mastering this is awareness. Knowing when you are showing the signs of sliding back to that place of overwhelm and overwork can be challenging, it creeps up on us minute by minute, email by email, this article shares some insights to help you recognise when you’re working too hard.

Overworking is rapidly becoming so prevalent that it’s being normalised. Resting, relaxing and recreation (yes that’s re-creation of our selves!) are an essential part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

It is not lazy to switch off your mobile in the evening, It is not lazy to skip a work-out one day because your body is screaming at you that it needs to rest. Feeling “tired but wired” is a sign of adrenal stress and is NOT an indicator that you are weak or not coping.

Here are 9 indicators that you are working too hard

1. Experiencing difficulty relaxing or switching off

2. Feeling like there are not enough hours in the day

3. Difficulty asking for help

4. Feeling overwhelmed by your never ending to-do list

5. Feeling like you are always “on the back foot”

6. Being irritable towards those closest to you

7. Craving sugar

8. Not sleeping well (tired but wired)

9. Relying on coffee to get you through the day

Four ways to bring more balance into your life - and we don’t mean balancing donuts!

• Schedule rest and relaxation time into your week as a priority. Protect this space in the same way you would a meeting with an important client. YOU are your most important client.

• Consider using a default diary approach to your calendar. Productivity Coach, Kate Galbally shares how in this blog.

• It may seem counter productive, but down tools and go for a walk.

• Share how you are feeling with someone you trust

Our NETwalking sessions are a great way to help you get out for that much needed walk with great company.