Building a career is a very important part of our lives. It gives us the feeling of self-actualization, achievement and satisfaction. It is very rewarding when we grow professionally, whether we choose a corporate setting or as self-employers. But consequently there are also unintended situations that can occur:

• late missed deadlines
• poor time management
• miscommunication or misunderstanding with team members
• problems with a manager
• pressure from stakeholders
• lack of motivation and self-esteem
• trying to get the desired promotion or a new project in vain

All of this can be very stressful. Acute stress is actually not a bad thing. It can give us an extra push to move forward. Chronic stress, on the contrary, is very dangerous. If we don't take actions on time and learn how to deal with stress, it might lead us to a burn-out.

I personally thought burn-outs were for other people and not me. That it is a sign of weakness and incompetence. I was wrong. I burned myself out during the first lock-down while trying to be a hero at work. Putting other's needs ahead of my own. 

Through my experience and study I have learned to overcome and help others as well. I have learned the sooner you ask for help, the sooner you can succeed. 

 These are the signs that your body is over strained and you urgently need help:

• chronic fatigue
• constant anxiety
• panic or anxiety attacks
• bad night sleep or insomnia
• psychosomatic symptoms such as headaches, back pain, irritatable stomach
• mood swings and irritability without a reason
• always forgetting things and making mistakes