Year-end Fatigue

Around November, most of us start feeling truly exhausted and that’s completely normal.

Even the most energetic person can burn out, because at the end of the day we are only human. Our bodies and minds have limits – push too hard for too long, and something eventually gives in.

What’s important is learning to recognise when you are tired.

And to my fellow gents, we have to start admitting it when we are. There’s no shame in saying, “I need a break”.

In the book ‘Same as Ever’, the author quotes Warren Buffett, who once joked: “You can’t make a baby in one month by getting nine women pregnant.”

The point is some things simply can’t be rushed.

We live in a world obsessed with speed. Can I get it tomorrow? Can we do it now? Everything feels urgent. But history shows that when you push things too far or try to move faster than nature allows, you pay the price. Most things and people have a natural pace. Go beyond that, and it backfires. This applies to all of us.

Throughout the year, we push ourselves, our bosses push us, our partners push us, it’s constant pressure. And before we know it, we are drained, or worse, lying in a hospital bed on a drip.

Where am I going with this? We are not made of steel. None of us are. November should be the month to slow down, take it easy and reset.

Here are a few small things that work for me. Maybe they will work for you too.

Movement is one of the most effective ways to calm the body and mind even though it may seem counterintuitive when you are tired. Physical activity helps release muscle tension, boosts your mood and reduces stress and anxiety through the release of endorphins. Whether it’s a gym session, walking or running, hiking, yoga or a quick stretch, moving your body can make a real difference in how you feel this time of the year.

Thus it is crucial to incorporate exercise or any form of physical activity in your life.

Doing absolutely nothing is another form of recovery. When you get home, give yourself permission to do nothing. Lie down, stay off your phone and disconnect from social media, especially from the constant flow of news which can increase stress. Close your eyes, breathe deeply and allow your mind to switch off. Rest is not laziness, it’s a necessary reset.

Do what calms you; everyone finds peace in different ways. For some, it might be reading a book, going to church, listening to music or spending time with family. Others may find calm in nature, cooking or even silence.

The key is to know what brings you balance and make time for it, intentionally.

Remember, no matter what challenges come your way this November and beyond, take things one step at a time. Rest when you need to, keep your priorities in check and trust that everything will eventually fall into place.

And if those methods don’t seem to work, that’s okay; you are human, and it is natural to feel overwhelmed at times. What matters is taking care of your body, listening to what it needs and allowing yourself to slow down.

– Meneer_SK is a passionate voice for men, advocating on issues that matter to men. Follow him on Instagram: @Meneer_SK

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