What to Do at the First Physical Signs of Burnout

Burnout usually announces itself through the body before the mind catches on. Persistent fatigue that sleep doesn't fix, frequent headaches, jaw clenching, stomach issues, getting sick more often — these are early warning signals, not just bad luck. When you notice them, don't push harder. Pull back immediately: cancel what isn't essential, protect your sleep above everything, take real breaks during the day, and move your body gently. Tell someone you trust what's happening. Burnout caught early takes weeks to recover from. Burnout caught late takes months or years.