Burnout can happen to the best of us, and it usually happens to those who least expect it. Burnout is a state of emotional, mental, and physical exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress. Most people think burnout happens to individuals who only half-heartedly like optometry, or the ones who just went into the profession for the money. How could it possibly happen to optometrists who love their profession?  How could it happen to owners who can’t afford to take their practices through an emotional and physical roller coaster?

The sobering reality is burnout does happen. Be prepared for when it does by knowing the three signs of burnout and the three steps you can take to survive it.

1. Recognize- You most likely have a good idea if you are experiencing the symptoms of burnout. The difference between stress and burnout is burnout characteristically shows a complete lack of care.
2. Share your concerns with others and let others help- This is always the hardest step because it requires humility. Men especially may be unwilling to practice this trait. The best advice I have taken in my professional and personal life is to meet weekly with an accountability partner and mentor. Meeting with this person has helped me work through seasons of burnout.
3. Do activities that build your physical, spiritual and emotional health- Studies have shown that physical exercise is not only good for stress relief and physical health, but it also plays a huge role in emotional health. Taking the time to exercise three or four times per week is one non-negotiable appointment that every optometrist should keep.