Avoid Burnout & Reach Your Maximum Creative Potential
The Oxford Dictionary defines burnout as, the “physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.”
With a flood of musicians and talented artists worldwide, it’s a tough and hard road toward musical success. It takes perseverance, determination, and a lot of hard work! Touring is many artists’ prime source of income. Late nights, grueling work schedules, and stress are all too real for up and coming artists.
Often, individuals sacrifice sleep and dietary choices first. A chain of events ensues. Mental and physical exhaustion develops. If this domino effect continues, burnout is inevitable.
In a study published by Help Musicians UK, a survey filled out by professional musicians suggested that artists are “three times more likely to suffer from depression compared to the general public.” Approximately 50% of those musicians state that they have difficulty getting help. Varying tour schedules, traveling, and lack of a consistent and close support network create barriers to proper physical and mental artists’ health and wellness, especially while on tour.
How can you avoid burnout?
Burnout frequently occurs during:
- Periods of high levels of stress
- Extreme fatigue (which could be contributing to increased feelings of stress or anxiety)
- Lack of breaks or vacation
- Adaption of poor eating habits
- The absence of a consistent exercise routine
- Illness or injury
- Sleep deficiency
- Lack of feelings of accomplishment and high levels of self-critique.
Recognize the signs. Find a balance. You may have committed yourself to a life of music. However, finding enjoyable outlets and hobbies outside of music provides time to de-stress and reset. Doing so may further optimize productivity and creativity when you do spend time on your music.
Make a note of which symptoms or signs you may be experiencing. Find viable solutions. If you are suffering from a physical illness, take time off and focus on your health. If you are experiencing extreme fatigue, make sleep a priority. Set goals and follow through with them. If stress is an issue, find appropriate stress coping strategies, such as exercise or massage.
Use ArtistServe’s health experts to consult with anywhere in the world. We provide massage therapists, dietary advice, and exercise consultations to ensure artists’ optimal health and wellbeing. Your health matters. To provide the best, you have to be at your best.
Make time for yourself. Notice the signs of burnout. Tackle them before you reach the edge. Find your balance and take care of yourself first!
Resources: