Burnout is often perceived as a phenomenon that solely peaks towards the end of the year, but in reality, it can sneak up at any time, impacting every facet of our lives, including our financial decisions. At Succession Financial Planning, we understand that recognising the signs of burnout is crucial, not just for your wellbeing but also for maintaining healthy financial habits.

Different money personalities might respond to burnout in varied ways, making it essential to identify and address these signs throughout the year.

Burnout manifests in several ways, some more subtle than others.

Irritability over minor matters: When small inconveniences start to feel overwhelming, it may indicate burnout, which can lead to impulsive financial decisions or neglect of important financial tasks.

Digestive issues: Stress and burnout often have physical manifestations, including digestive problems. This physical discomfort can translate to a lack of focus on financial planning and decision-making.

Muscle pain and inflammation: Physical symptoms like shoulder and neck discomfort are common indicators of stress and can distract from the necessary concentration required for effective financial management.

Chronic exhaustion: If rest isn’t providing the usual rejuvenation, it could be a sign of deeper fatigue, affecting your ability to make sound financial choices and manage your resources effectively.

Concentration difficulties: Struggling to focus can lead to missed opportunities or errors in financial management, potentially having long-term consequences.

Detachment and dissatisfaction: A lack of interest or satisfaction in professional accomplishments can extend to a disinterest in managing personal finances, leading to neglect or poor financial decisions.

Depending on your financial personality, burnout can affect your decision-making in distinct ways. For example, a 'Risk-taker' might make even more impulsive investment choices, potentially overlooking the long-term consequences in favour of immediate gratification. Conversely, a 'Saver' might become excessively cautious or indecisive, paralysed by the fear of making a wrong move, thus missing out on beneficial financial opportunities.

Additionally, someone who typically enjoys meticulously planning their finances may start ignoring crucial details, leading to uncharacteristic oversights. Burnout can also lead the 'Planner' type to feel overwhelmed by the usual financial management tasks, causing a delay in important financial decisions or neglect in regular financial health check-ups.

Setting Healthier Boundaries

It's not about being wrong for facing burnout; it's about noticing the signs and setting healthier boundaries. As renowned psychologist, Carl Jung, said, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become." This perspective is vital in managing burnout and its impact on your financial life.

Awareness is the first step towards recovery. If you notice these signs, consider taking steps to rest and recalibrate. This might mean setting aside specific times for financial planning when you're most at ease, seeking advice from a financial adviser, or even using tools and resources to streamline your financial management process.

At SFP, we advocate for a balanced approach to life and finances. Recognising and addressing burnout is a critical part of maintaining this balance. Remember, your financial wellbeing is intertwined with your overall health. By staying vigilant about burnout signs and taking proactive measures, you can ensure that your financial decisions are always made with clarity and foresight, regardless of the time of year.