We know that Amaliah is like a Big Sis and sometimes our DMs have been filled with requests for advice on a range of life issues including relationships, friendships or work troubles.

We have started a new segment where we field dilemmas from the community and answer them as frankly as we can with love, truth and honesty.

Need some advice on a dilemma? Send them all here!

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Salam Aunt Maya. I have a demanding job, and despite my hard work, I’m struggling due to the current economic situation. I constantly feel exhausted, and all the relaxing self-care activities seem to require money. How can I cope with burnout under these circumstances?

Maya Areem responds:

Asalamu Alaykum,

Thank you for reaching out and sharing your struggles. The combination of a demanding job and the current economic climate is indeed overwhelming. Your feelings of exhaustion are valid, and it’s important to address them in a way that aligns with both your financial situation and your wellbeing. 

I want to also affirm that the current situation is one that many people find themselves in and it is not a personal fault on your part. There are many ways people who despite working hard are being failed by current economic and social systems across the world. 

The economic situation many of us face today can exacerbate feelings of burnout, whilst leaving little space for recovery and respite. Capitalism often functions to keep us busy and disconnected from our communities, which could otherwise nourish us and help share the load. Remember, we aren’t meant to do life alone, and our strength and fitrah leans towards community. There may be others in your circle facing similar challenges, reaching out and connecting with them can provide mutual support and relief.

First and foremost, remember that Allah (SWT) is always there for us. Turn to Him (SWT) in prayer and seek comfort in your faith. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’an, 

“Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.” (Surah Ash-Sharh 94:6)

Trusting in Allah (SWT)’s plan and seeking His guidance can provide immense relief and clarity. Make it a habit to engage in daily dhikr and recite du’as that can help alleviate stress.

Here are some recommendations, given that I don’t know your particular situation in depth, some of them may not work for you. 

Try to take a step back and reassess your responsibilities and workload. Are there tasks you can delegate or postpone? Sometimes, we take on more than we can handle, thinking it’s necessary, but it’s crucial to prioritise what truly matters and let go of what can wait.

If it won’t impact your career, consider approaching your line manager and respectfully communicating the effects on your mental health if your workload has become unmanageable. Sometimes, employers can offer flexibility or support if they understand your situation. Try to set boundaries by establishing a routine that includes breaks, downtime and not working beyond your contracted work hours.

In the meantime, I encourage you to reflect on your long-term career goals and if your current workplace aligns with them. Would you consider exploring new job opportunities that might offer a healthier work-life balance, while supporting your career aspirations? Sometimes, a change in environment can make a significant difference in our overall well-being.

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, “Your body has a right over you.” (Bukhari)

This highlights the importance of taking care of your physical and mental health. Overworking to the point of burnout is not sustainable and our current economic system has made self-care seem like a luxury instead of the essential need it truly is. 

Secondly, you don’t need to do anything elaborate to feel like you’ve had a productive self-care day or even moment. Have a think about the kind of activities that nourish and rejuvenate you. Are you an extrovert, introvert, or a bit of both? Self-care is about recharging in a way that suits your personality. Having some sort of accountability partner that supports your self-care can also help you.

If you find yourself feeling hopeful and in a better place after being around friends, try to make this a regular part of your life. This can include phone calls, walks, and other inexpensive or free ways to spend time with loved ones. It could be something as small as catching up with a friend over video call while you both draw! Simply stepping out into the sunshine or relaxing on a picnic mat in the park with some homemade sandwiches and drinks can refresh and rejuvenate you. Try going for a nature walk on weekend mornings. Whether it’s a local park or a simple stroll in your neighbourhood, fresh air and a change of scenery can do wonders. You can also ask a friend or colleague to join you. 

Depending on your location, you can perhaps join a local walking group to get some movement, check out a local reading club or maybe visit some free gallery exhibitions that won’t cost money. 

If the weather does not allow you to step outside, simple activities like lighting a candle after cleaning your space, hanging out at the library if you like to read, or engaging in light exercise like yoga or stretching can be relaxing. Invite your friends over or meet up and turn it into a regular session. Hang out afterwards with a warm cuppa and even more heartwarming conversations.

If you are an introvert, focus on ways to recoup that feel nourishing to you. When burnt out, it can seem counterproductive to do more things, but engaging in activities that facilitate joy and nourishment can actually help you feel better. Whether you prefer socialising or solitude, the key is to incorporate activities that truly recharge your spirit.

You can also reach out to your local online community for support. Many communities offer free virtual events like online book clubs or hobby groups. They might also offer low-cost events and activities that you can participate in, particularly during summer months like a movie in a park. Just turn up with a blanket and snacks and you’ll be good to go.

I would also advise you to take a look at your schedule on your days off. Are you bogged down by admin chores that are exhausting you and not giving you enough of a downtime? Try to block the first Saturday of every month for all your various personal chores so you can free up the rest of your time. 

Don’t just plan to go for a walk; set it up in your calendar with reminders and send calendar invites to family or friends to join in. There is no harm in planning our personal lives professionally; in fact, we deserve to treat our wellbeing with the same commitment and passion that we put into our professional work. Reframing our perspectives around our days off can be instrumental in finding balance and ensuring that we allocate adequate time for rest and rejuvenation. By doing so, you can create a structured yet flexible routine that allows you to recharge effectively.

Additionally, reflect on your achievements and the efforts you’re putting into your job. Sometimes, we are our own harshest critics. Acknowledge your hard work and remind yourself of how far you have come and the positive impact you’re making. Reframing your perspective can shift your focus from exhaustion to gratitude.

May Allah (SWT) grant you ease, strength, and serenity in your journey.

Love + Duas

Aunt Maya

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If you would like some wisdom from Aunt Maya, send in your problems here! Please note Aunt Maya may consult the opinion of others from time to time and ask the Amaliah community for their advice too. Aunt Maya is not a licensed therapist or mental health professional.