Last post we went over how burn outs occur due to us not being able to handle good happenings. We usually self-sabotage when we go beyond what we believe we deserve, our self-concept. How can we allow ourselves to “own” more rather than burn out? There are simple practices you can observe to increase your self-concept so you don’t burn out.
Gratitude. We can accept a lot more in our lives if we appreciate what we already have. Gratitude is saying “thank you” to the world. If you don’t count your blessings, you’ll never add more. Being grateful assumes the mindset of “I’m so happy for the wonderful things in my life.” The underlying assumption is that you have and expect wonderful things. This is the opposite of a self-sabotaging burnout.
Service. Ingrained in our brains is the notion that we must work, suffer, or pay for anything good in our lives. If something good spontaneously happens, we feel uncomfortable. That’s why many lottery winners get depressed. Serving others is one of the best ways to convince your brain that you indeed deserve everything good that you have. Giving back feels good for a reason. Make helping other people a habit. Send out a lot of love and you’ll feel much more comfortable receiving it.
MVP Kevin Durant didn’t allow himself to burn out.
Desire. All-Star NBA player Kevin Durant famously missed his high school prom because of a few missed shots. His desire to play in the NBA was so strong that he made a rule that he couldn’t do anything after school until he hit 500 free throws. The night of his senior prom he didn’t hit 500 quickly enough and he had to sacrifice prom. He didn’t burn out though. His desire for the NBA was so strong that no party, even a once in a lifetime party, was worth it. I think he made the right choice. Commit to what you really want. Think about the big win. If your dreams are big, there’s no room for burning out.
People get what they believe they deserve. Increase your self-concept for what you deserve with gratitude, service, and a commitment to desire. You deserve everything you want. Go get it and happy Friday!