“Burnout” is a buzzword.
From workplaces to worship centers to living rooms, weary souls complain of familiar fatigue. In our rapidly paced culture, even the most ambitious suffer from lethargy. Like hamsters on society’s wheel, we run with unreasonable and unsustainable demands.
It’s prudent to inquire what we actually experience— is it “burnout” or overstimulated, overcommitted, underprioritized exhaustion? Sabbaticals, retreats, and vacations help, but they don’t touch the hem of the culprit’s garment. We grow weary from boredom just like busyness.
To “burnout,” we must first be “on fire” for something.
The real problem isn’t “burnout.” It’s not having a purpose.
What is your purpose?
What gets your blood pumping?
What gets your feet out of bed in the morning?
Why did God put you on earth?
Many work themselves into a grave without ever answering those life-changing questions. They hit a brick wall, but they didn’t “burnout.” They were never “on fire” to begin with.
They kept striking a match that never lit. They spent too much time reading someone else’s story than writing their own.
Our purpose is often right under our nose. We already enjoy doing it well.
King Solomon who did indeed, burnout, rediscovered his fire at the end of his life when He said, “Now all has been heard; here is the conclusion of the matter: Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man.” (Ecclesiastes 12: 13, NIV)
That’s an excellent place to start. There’s nothing better than discovering your purpose and letting the fire burn. |
