Check In Before You Burn Out: A Real Talk Reflection on Stress

You’ve been holding a lot.

Maybe too much.

But you keep pushing, because you have to—right?

This is your space to pause. To breathe. To check in with you.

Because the truth is: Stress doesn’t just go away. It stacks.

And if you don’t slow down and listen to what it’s trying to say… it starts making choices for you—your mood, your body, your relationships.

Stress Reflection: Let’s Get Honest

Answer these with your gut. Write it down if that helps. Don’t overthink it—just be real.

1. Am I always “on,” even when I’m tired?

2. Do I feel disconnected from myself or the people I care about?

3. Is my body giving me warning signs—fatigue, tension, headaches, or irritability?

4. Am I snapping at people or avoiding them altogether?

5. Do I feel like I’m doing a lot but not really moving forward?

6. When was the last time I felt rested and grounded?

If you’re nodding yes to most of these, you’re not broken. You’re burnt out—and you need a plan.

Build a Strategy That Protects Your Peace

This isn’t about fixing yourself. It’s about backing yourself up.

Here’s what that might look like:

1. Call a Meeting—with Yourself or Your Partner

Sit down. No distractions. Ask: What’s draining me? What’s working? What’s not? What needs to change?

2. Keep It Simple

Don’t try to overhaul your life overnight. Pick one thing to stop doing. One thing to let go of. One thing to rest more.

3. Talk to a Therapist or Coach

You need someone neutral in your corner—who can help you sort through the noise and build better tools.

4. Connect—Don’t Isolate

Stress grows in silence. Reach out to someone who sees you and wants you well.

5. Rest Is the Assignment

Not just sleep—rest. Physically. Mentally. Spiritually. Rest is not laziness. It’s recovery.

6. Don’t Make Big Life Moves Yet

If your stress is sky-high, now is not the time for major decisions. Wait for clarity, not chaos.

7. Try Mindfulness and Minimalism

Clear your space. Clear your schedule. Breathe deep. Pay attention to this moment, not the next 10.

Final Word

Your stress is real. Your peace is possible.

But you’ve got to start somewhere.

Start with one breath. One step. One conversation.

And remind yourself: You’re allowed to take care of you.

Stay Rooted,

Shanelle

Shanelle Koroma is a mental health therapist, life/wellness coach, and Co-Founder of the Ujima Retreat Center.

#StressCheck #ProtectYourPeace #RestIsResistance