I think that burnout happens when you set a goal, you work really, really hard to achieve the goal, and then the deadline comes and you haven’t achieved your goal.

Burnout happens to me sometimes. I set a deadline, I set a goal, and I work really, really hard. The deadline comes and goes. I think - I’m nearly there; I’m so close, just 10% to go; just these few tasks to go - just keep pushing forwards at the same velocity and you’ll reach those goals.

But it all feels untethered, like I’m not really doing what I’m supposed to be doing. Sometimes I push through and achieve the goal (if it’s linked to an external date that I can’t push). Other times, most often, after a few weeks, I realize I’m not being productive, that I need to recalibrate - forgive myself for the goals not reached, and set new goals taking all my other priorities into consideration. After missing a goal or milestone, when I take time out to recalibrate and take stock, I am only then able to return to my work with renewed energy, enthusiasm and vigour.