I took a deep breath and suddenly stopped. This feeling was all too familiar, not just a feeling, but more like a subtle signal in the back of my mind. I was heading towards burnout again.

Or was I?

Imagine this: you’ve clawed your way out of the exhausting burnout phase of your life. You’ve cut back on responsibilities, learned to say no, and removed yourself from stressful environments. You vowed never to return to that overwhelming fatigue. You love how you feel now: restored, lighter, refreshed. But deep inside, there’s a lingering fear, a quiet voice wondering if another burnout is lurking just around the corner.

As seasons change, life often asks more of us. You might need to add something back to your plate, whether it’s a new responsibility at work, pursuing a personal goal, or stepping up in a different area of your life. And suddenly, you feel triggered.

Our minds are wired for survival. So after taking steps to restore your soul and body, your mind stays on high alert to keep you safe. But when new pressures arise—more income, a promotion, losing a few pounds, or being more consistent on social media—your mind can react as if it’s a code red situation.

Here’s where the healing journey comes in. It’s taught us to be more mindful. Very self-aware. Very mature. This means this feeling may not actually be burnout; instead, it might be the fear of burning out again. But how do you tell the difference?

Let’s reflect:

Is it hard to do the things you love?
Is what’s on your plate overwhelming you?
Does something need to come off?

If you answered no to all three, this likely isn’t burnout—it’s the fear of what could happen if this new responsibility becomes too much. (If you are experiencing burnout, don’t hesitate to seek help. I also made a video about here.) But if you’re not burning out, remind yourself that new seasons are not automatically bad. Your body doesn’t need to live in fear.

Here are a few things you can do if your body is simply being triggered by the new season ahead:

Get rest – This is tricky in the world of performance we live in, but slow down, and get rest..
Ease into the new – Gradual adjustments can help you adjust without overwhelming yourself.
Acknowledge the difference – Recognize how this new experience is not the same as your old burnout.

Triggers deserve attention, but sometimes all you need is a little pep talk. Our bodies remember past experiences, but they also have the power to create new patterns. Give yourself the chance to rewrite your narrative and remind yourself along the way—you’re safe… as long as you truly are.

You’re taking new steps, growing, and evolving. Relax your shoulders, breathe deeply, and let that tingling feeling subside. All is well on this journey.

You’re winning.

Stay Connected:

Follow Felicia Morgan on Instagram @Feliciamomorgan and YouTube @FeliciaMorgan

Triggered by Burnout