Enjoy social settings? Don’t like being alone? Thrive around people? You may be an extrovert! Extroverts are often deemed as the life of the party, drawing their energy source from crowds and interaction with the external world. However, despite being outgoing and optimistic people, extroverts can experience emotional burnout too.
Why is burnout so challenging for extroverts?
Emotional burnout can be an incredibly stressful experience for extroverts as the characteristics are the opposite of their usual personality traits. You may feel emotionally and physically drained, have an overwhelming sense of exhaustion, and lack interest in the things you usually love or the people you enjoy spending time with. This goes against everything in an extrovert’s nature, and the drastic change in emotions can often lead to difficulty completing simple tasks and the emergence of mental health symptoms, such as anxiety and depression.
How to prevent burnout as an extrovert
Take time to yourself
As an extrovert, it is in your nature to want to socialise and keep yourself busy, but it is important to make time for yourself. Give yourself time to recharge, whether this is by going for a walk or reading a good book, take the time to be alone, away from social pressures and the urge to socialise with others. Allow yourself this healthy break from being around other people, particularly after a long period of socialising.
Hide your phone
Taking time to yourself includes digitally. As tempting as it may be to scroll through social media, or message friends and loved ones in the evening, this is still a form of socialising and can perpetuate the overwhelming symptoms of burnout. To avoid the temptation, hide your phone away for a while and enjoy the calm.
Talk to someone
A common personality trait of being an extrovert is benefiting from talking through problems rather than internalising them as introverts often do. Extroverts are usually good at expressing themselves openly, but when experiencing burnout, this can feel more challenging.
If you are experiencing burnout, talking to an experienced psychologist can always be beneficial. If think you may be experiencing burnout, get in touch with me today for more information.
