Were We Always This Tired?

In my public relations work, we’re often looking forward to the end of the year, when “things will finally slow down for a few weeks.” And yet inevitably some kind of new business opportunity drops on us, or a client has a crisis, and there’s some extra hustle going on instead. In fact, I often feel that way about the holidays in general — I think I’ll have some quiet around this time of year, but of course that’s not what happens. There are parties to attend, decorations to get up, gifts to deliver.

And yeah, this isn’t new, and it isn’t unique. But geez, did anyone else feel like it was a little extra intense this year?

Or…is the world just getting a little closer to normal again, and after a year and a half of shut-in, am I experiencing the same bustling schedule differently? Were we always this tired? I really can’t tell.

While the pandemic has been challenging and awful in so many different ways, I’ll take the reminder to slow down. I think I’ve gotten a little better over the years, but meanwhile, other things have turned up — my responsibilities at work, my writing and book outreach efforts, new projects like podcasts — and the result is a constant whirlwind.

I’ve gotten a little better about setting boundaries for better sleep. And I’ve picked up a few good habits like end of day meditation that help me manage the stress and rest better. But boy — is this real life? Just a constant fight to regain energy?

One silver lining: Due to burnout or whatever reason, I’m really not sure, it’s sometimes hard for me to to tap into that holiday season joy. But this year, something feels different. It’s been a quiet easiness that’s taking the edge off, even if I’m not always as rested as I could be.

So, I’ll take that. And I’ll get the rest while I can.