Let’s talk about something that a lot of us high-performing women face but don’t always recognize right away: burnout.

You’re Constantly Tired

Why It Happens: Burnout messes with your hormones, especially cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. When you’re constantly in a state of stress, your cortisol levels get thrown out of balance, making it difficult for your body to regulate energy. Your adrenal glands are overworked, leading to that “tired but wired” feeling.

You’re Emotional

Why It Happens: When you’re burned out, your body’s natural stress response goes into overdrive. High levels of stress hormones like cortisol can affect your mood and emotional regulation. Plus, burnout can lead to hormonal imbalances, which only add to feelings of irritability and anxiety.

Your Digestive System is All Over the Place

Why It Happens: Stress and burnout impact your gut health. When you’re stressed, your body’s “fight or flight” mode kicks in, slowing down digestion and reducing blood flow to the stomach. This leads to digestive issues and can throw off the balance of good bacteria in your gut.

Brain Fog or Inability to Focus

Why It Happens: Chronic stress affects cognitive function. When your body is in a constant state of burnout, your cortisol levels interfere with neurotransmitter production, leading to difficulties in concentration and mental clarity.

Increased Sugar and Caffeine Cravings

Why It Happens: When you’re burned out, your body looks for quick sources of energy to keep you going. Cortisol imbalances can trigger sugar cravings, while fatigue might push you to consume more caffeine for an energy boost.

Sleep Issues

Why It Happens: Burnout disrupts your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. High stress levels affect melatonin production, making it hard for you to fall asleep or stay asleep.

Feeling Disconnected or Unmotivated

Why It Happens: Burnout affects not just your body but your mindset. Constant stress and exhaustion can lead to feelings of apathy and disconnection, making it hard to feel motivated or find joy in activities you once loved.

Recognizing these signs is the first step to breaking the burnout cycle and reclaiming your energy, mindset, and health. Your body is sending you signals that it needs support. Remember, burnout didn’t happen overnight, and breaking free from it won’t either. Be kind to yourself as you take the steps necessary to heal. You’ve got this, girl!