From the age of 13, up until I was 22, I traveled through my day performing the same routine. Morning workout, school, softball practice, extra batting practice, eat, study & sleep. This schedule kept me focused, but most importantly helped me discover my real passion in life; helping people. By the time I graduated from college, I had a job lined up as a personal trainer. I felt secure, transitioning from one chapter of my life to the next, however it weighed heavily on my mental health.
I have always had a Black & White way of thinking. If I wanted something bad enough, I would put all my energy into it and if I didn’t, I wouldn’t waste any time. For some, you might think this is okay, but for me I was rolling smoothly up until I began adding more activities into my schedule. I started going out with friends, hanging out at later times and before I knew it; I was cutting my sleep time in half. I would leave my house at 5 a.m. for work, workout and then meet up with friends and arrive home sometimes close to 1 a.m. This schedule went on for almost a year, before I realized that was not the lifestyle I wanted to live. One morning I woke up and decided I did not want to go into work, I did not want to deal with anyone or anything. I was mentally exhausted from trying to please my clients and with any extra time I had; trying to please myself.
Many of you know me by now, I do not share a lot of personal past stories, but when I do it’s to show you that we are all humans that go through different stages in our lives. I want you to know that whatever you are feeling, you are certainly not alone.
Experiencing mental fatigue can be stemmed by a variety of circumstances. To overcome this experience, we must first identify what it is that you are feeling?
You may feel exhausted, drained, alone, depressed, anxious, nauseous or even or tired. Once you identify what you are feeling, you can then discover when those feelings start to occur. For example, you may experience mental fatigue when you are functioning through a hectic schedule, listening to too many external opinions or even cramming for a deadline. What caused my experience of mental fatigue was trying to do everything and please everyone. I had very little time for myself.
Here are a few ways that have helped me overcome my mental fatigue.
1. Set My Priorities
Think about a goal you have and why that goal is important to you. Having set your priorities allows you to plan your schedule for the day; performing activities that will keep you on track of those goals, so you can be more productive with your time. Also, what priorities let you feel at your best? Those priorities should be placed before or after the most busiest/hectic part of your day as a way to unwind.
2. Talk with a Loved One
Sometimes we get so wrapped up into our own thoughts, we often forget who we are and what we are capable of being. Talking with someone who cares and supports you, gives your life more positive meaning. It is refreshing to know you are not dealing with your experience alone and that you have other's you can lean on for guidance.
3. Move Your Body Daily
Going for a walk, run or workout will immediately have your blood pumping. The more you move, the higher the amount of oxygen flows into your brain; eliminating any brain fog. You can think clearly and with confidence!
These are just some ways that have helped me develop a system to a live a life I am proud of. I will say, the more positive thoughts you stir up along your journey, the more energy your body will have.
Just know I am here for you, if you ever need to talk.
Sending you so much love & light,
Coach Steph
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