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How to Stop Stressing About Money & Avoid Burnout

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With many people facing added mental, emotional and financial stress, our overall health has never been more important. If you’ve been feeling less than yourself lately, you’re not alone. It’s normal to feel burnt out from everything that’s been going on. Unfortunately, burnout can extend to all parts of your life from work to family and everything in between, including your finances.

Symptoms of Financial Stress

Financial stress can manifest in obvious and subtle ways. Recognizing these symptoms can help you address the issue.

Common Signs of Financial Burnout

Look out for these signs of financial burnout:

  • Constantly thinking about your budget or lack thereof.
  • Stress about where your money is coming from and where it’s going.
  • Guilt, exhaustion, depression, or feeling overwhelmed by finances.
  • Cynicism or apathy towards your financial goals.
  • Lack of sleep or increased anxiety just thinking about money.

Addressing Financial Burnout

If you notice any of these symptoms, you may be dealing with financial burnout. Fortunately, there are ways to address this and regain your sense of well-being.

8 Strategies to Stop Stressing About Money

Stressing about money can create a downward spiral that hinders progress. With over 20 years of experience, we’ve found practical ways to regain control. Avoid letting your budget overwhelm you!

Try these eight strategies:

Don’t Let Money Consume Your Thoughts 

If money dominates your thoughts, take a break. Avoid checking your bank account for a week. Use this time to recharge and focus on your well-being.

Get Organized

Stay on top of your finances by getting organized. Know your pay dates, bill due dates, budget, and savings. Use an app, spreadsheet, or journal to track everything. We offer many resources to help you start.

Let Go

If certain habits or routines stress you out, consider letting them go. Whether it’s couponing or daily journaling, release what doesn’t serve you. Also, forgive yourself for past financial mistakes.

Set Up Monthly Auto Payments

Automate your monthly payments to avoid stress. Track your payments in a money diary. Check your bank statements monthly to ensure everything is processed correctly.

Talk to Someone About Financial Stress

Financial stress can be overwhelming. Talk to a family member, friend, therapist, or one of our accredited counselors. Sharing your concerns can make a big difference.

Manage Your Health to Build Wealth

Financial stress can impact your health. Prioritize self-care and wellness. Practice breathing exercises, exercise, meditate, stay hydrated, sleep well, and spend time with loved ones.

Focus on Your Financial Goals

Reassess your financial goals. Are some goals too ambitious and causing stress? Focus on goals that inspire and motivate you. Write them down and keep them visible to stay accountable.

Live a Little

Don’t cut out all fun from your budget. Balance is key. Include enjoyable activities like outings and small treats. Reward yourself for hard work to stay motivated.

References

Money Mentors. (n.d.). How to stop stressing about money and avoid burnout. Money Mentors. Retrieved  from https://moneymentors.ca/money-tips/how-to-stop-stressing-about-money-and-avoid-burnout/

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