Distinguishing Perimenopause from Burnout: Strategies for Self-Care
Distinguishing Perimenopause from Burnout
What truly opened my eyes was the emphasis on distinguishing burnout from perimenopause. The symptoms of one can mask the other, making self-care and medical attention pivotal.
I've come to realize that the journey to success isn't just about the hustle and grind; it's equally about focusing on own well-being. That's why I was incredibly inspired by my latest conversation in the Self Care Series on 'The Driven Woman Entrepreneur Podcast’' titled 'Is It Burnout or Perimenopause?'. The insights shared on the podcast resonated deeply with me and reinforced the critical importance of self-care, especially during the transformative perimenopausal period. It's something that I, and so many fellow female entrepreneurs, can relate to but often overlooked in the daily rush of running our businesses.
The discussion between guest Stephanie Shaw and I illuminated how closely intertwined emotional health and physical well-being are. Stephanie's advocacy for journaling struck a chord with me, as it's a practice I've embraced on and off for years. Journaling has become an unexpected ally in my journey, helping me process emotions and strategize through challenges. Setting boundaries in my personal and professional life has also been nothing short of revolutionary, giving me the space to think, be creative, and come back stronger for my business endeavors.
What truly opened my eyes was the emphasis on distinguishing burnout from perimenopause. The symptoms of one can mask the other, making self-care and medical attention pivotal. It's concerning yet empowering to learn that it might take additional self-advocacy to get the correct tests and support from healthcare providers. Stephanie's experience with the healthcare system was an eye-opener and a call to action to be more strategic in our health-related conversations with doctors and family.
The societal pressure to continuously perform at a high level without advocating for our own needs resonates painfully. Listening to Stephanie share her story, I was reminded of the crucial role self-care plays not just for me, but also for those who depend on me, be it my family or my team. Hearing how she had to reach rock bottom before recognizing the value of self-care was a wake-up call. Being intentional about taking care of oneself, as Stephanie highlights, can transform pain into purpose, improving not just our health, but also our capacity to serve others more effectively.
A particular point that hit home for me was the discussion surrounding the transition into menopause and the impact it can have on brain health and cognitive functions, especially for those with ADHD. Stephanie's journey through perimenopause pushed her to understand her body's triggers, aligning with my own quest to manage my health proactively. Identifying patterns, triggers, and solutions that enhance my overall quality of life are instrumental in managing mood, energy, and motivation throughout life, especially during perimenopause.
Each episode of 'The Driven Woman Entrepreneur' is a treasure trove of insights, but this conversation with Stephanie Shaw about the nuances of perimenopause and burnout self-care, and the need for self-advocacy in healthcare was particularly impactful. As female entrepreneurs, being informed and empowered about this significant phase of life not only facilitates our own well-being but also strengthens the foundation of our businesses.
Feel free to DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram @coachdiannwingert or send me an email at diann@diannwingertcoaching.com. I'd love to hear your thoughts! If you'd like to hear the full episode on The Driven Woman Entrepreneur Podcast, you can do that here.