Paul Hastings lost mobility in his arm from the stress of burnout at 29 years old. He shares the decision to overcome burnout and how to get your family back as a priority.
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Overcome Burnout Before It Costs You an Arm or Leg
If you’re like many Americans, you’re juggling a lot. You’ve got work, family, and social obligations, and it can be tough to keep everything going. But sometimes, despite your best efforts, things can get overwhelming. You might start feeling irritable and resentful, and you may find yourself snapping at your loved ones. You might even start to feel like you’re failing at everything.
If this sounds familiar, you might be experiencing burnout. Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that can be caused by excessive and prolonged stress. It’s important to recognize the signs of burnout so you can take steps to address them before it gets worse.
Paul Hastings was a hard-working family man running a business that supported his family. The work was rewarding, purpose-driven, and he felt that there was significance in his work. That began to change at 29 years old when he felt numbness in his arm that eventually led to paralysis of that arm.
Here are some signs that you might be experiencing burnout:
You’re always tired: If you find yourself feeling exhausted all the time, even after a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign of burnout.
You’re easily irritable: If you find yourself getting angry or frustrated more easily than usual, it could be a sign that you’re struggling to cope with stress.
You’re not taking care of yourself: When you’re stressed, it’s easy to let healthy habits slide. If you find yourself skipping meals, not exercising, or using alcohol or drugs to cope, it could be a sign of burnout.
You’re feeling hopeless: If you’re struggling to see the silver lining in any situation, it could be a sign that you’re starting to feel overwhelmed.
If you’re experiencing any of these signs, it’s important to reach out for help. Talk to your doctor or mental health professional about what you’re going through. They can help you develop a plan to address your stress and avoid burnout.
In addition to seeking professional help, there are some things you can do on your own to start feeling better. Here are a few tips:
Get moving: Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and boost your mood. Even a short walk can make a difference.
Eat healthy: When you’re stressed, it’s tempting to reach for unhealthy comfort foods. But eating a balanced diet can help you feel better physically and mentally.
Make time for yourself: It’s important to make time for activities that make you happy. Whether it’s reading, taking a yoga class, or taking a long bath, find something that helps you relax and recharge.
Talk to someone: Talking to a friend, family member, or therapist can help you process what you’re going through and make a plan to improve your situation.
Burnout can be tough to deal with, but it’s important to reach out for help if you’re struggling.
In This Episode
- Meeting at Spark Christian Podcasters Conference
- Life as a campaign marketing manager and the burnout that came with it
- Contemplating work-life balance for health
- The first stories of Compelled gathering remarkable stories from people
- Your stories can impact and teach others
- The biggest challenge about podcasting while working full-time
- Going full-time in podcasting with a production team
- Interviewing Hannah Overton, wrongfully sentenced to life in prison
- Paralysis at 29 years old from overwork
- Putting God and family back as a priority
- Our wives as sounding boards and partners in our lives
Paul Hastings
Paul Hastings is a podcaster and entrepreneur. He has consulted extensively in the film, marketing, and political arenas. He is the host of “Compelled”, a podcast telling unique stories about God working through people’s lives.
He has also produced several award-winning short films and industrial pieces.
His work has been featured by Dr. James Dobson’s Family Talk, World Magazine, The Gospel Coalition, American Family Association, TheBlaze, CBN News, WND, and more.
Paul, his wife, and their three children live near Austin, Texas, and attend Redemption Hill Church.
Resources and Links
Listen to Paul Hasting’s podcast, Compelled to hear more stories of those who felt compelled to live their lives for a greater purpose. Compelled is a seasonal podcast using gripping, immersive storytelling to celebrate the powerful ways God is transforming the lives of Christians around the world.
Listen to past episodes about how to be a father who is engaged:
How to Create a Positive Mindset as a Christian Man – BtR 265
Great Podcasters from Spark Media Conference – BtR 262
Spark Media Ventures as a Couple Peter and Misty Phillip – BtR 301
Finding Joy in Life – Yvette Walker – BtR 307
Episode Credits
Host, Editing, and Production: Jerry Dugan
Music: “Oceans Apart” is our theme song composed and performed by Scott Ian Holmes.
