Everyone…me first…says: slow down. Rest. Regulate.
And yes, it is true, that matters. A lot.
But it’s only half the story.
Because if we only dampen everything down? We flatline. And for our brains, flatline looks a lot like depression.
We actually need two things calm and dopamine fuel
1. Things that bring us OUT of fight or flight
- Predictable routines or structure
- Sensory comfort
- Gentle movement, nature, rest
- Fewer demands than the world usually insists on
2. Things that make life worth getting up for
- Novelty. Creativity. Dopamine.
- Something to look forward to
- A reason to think I can’t wait for that
Without both? We’re just surviving.
So how do we build a life with both?
One powerful way: a portfolio life.
You don’t need one job that does everything. That’s too much to ask of one thing.
Instead, mix and match:
- A job that pays the bills + creative work on the side
- Paid work + volunteering that gives you purpose
- A career + a hobby, a sport, a project that lights you up
It doesn’t all have to be paid.
It just has to be yours and bring you balance.
This is why you seem me coach and run Biodanza classes. I get so much nourishement and dopamine from working and music in music and helping others do the same.
But what if your job is burning you out?
First … try to change the conditions.
- Talk to Occupational Health and HR. Ask for reasonable adjustments. You have rights.
- Apply to Access to Work. It can fund coaching, support, and equipment. (Grab my free guide here )
- Get support to manage your energy and workload, colleagues, management or a coach.
If nothing changes after that?
Then the role may not be compatible with your neurolotype. And that’s not a failure…that’s information. Yes I know it might feel too much and overwhelming but you can’t stay where you are getting ill.
Your options:
- Reduce hours + add a less depleting income stream
- Start looking for something that fits better
- Build an exit plan: slowly, intentionally, before it becomes a crisis
Please don’t wait until your body decides for you
This is important.
Stay too long in chronic burnout and you don’t get to choose how it ends. Your body makes the choice. Through illness. Through collapse. Through not being able to work at all.
You deserve to act before that point.
Not because you’re dramatic. Not because you’re weak.
Because you understand how your nervous system works and you’re wise enough to protect it.
Just take one step!
