My Burnout Isn’t Just a Health Issue. It’s a Money Issue.

When we think about what causes financial instability, we typically think about a business closing, a person losing their job, or an economic downturn. We don’t typically think about burnout as a threat to our finances — but we should. Even if you are on track to meet your retirement goals, if you burn out to the point where you can’t do your job, you end up putting that financial safety net at risk. Goodbye 401(k) contributions. Goodbye rainy day fund.

• HBR editor Laura Amico, came to this realization after an eye-opening conversation with her financial advisor. It was the push she needed to address her burnout sooner than later.
• As a mother of two young children, working full-time, she discovered some useful (and realistic) tips around how to get started.
• First, it’s not about using your vacation time. It’s about practicing daily, restorative habits to help build your resilience. This may be taking a long lunch break, exercising after work, and spending more time with family and friends.
• Second, celebrate your accomplishments. Most people finish something and forget to pause and enjoy the feeling of achievement — pause more often to let yourself do this.
• Finally, brainstorm fun ways to fulfill your responsibilities (at work or at home). Listen to music while you fold laundry. Ask your kids to help you clean out the closet. Bring joy into everyday tasks.