Is it weird to take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Many ambitious professionals find themselves in this exact situation, pushing through fatigue to meet perceived demands or seize new opportunities. It's a common response to a culture that often rewards constant productivity and equates busyness with success. There's a strong drive to maintain momentum, even when your body and mind are signaling a need for rest.

Research from the American Psychological Association indicates that over half of employed adults feel overwhelmed by their workload, often leading to a cycle of overcommitment.

See other perspectives

Am I the only one who keeps taking on more projects, even when completely exhausted?

Am I the Only One?

Does everyone take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Does Everyone?

Is it normal to take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Is It Normal?

Why do I take on more projects even when completely exhausted?

Why Do I?

Real stories from the community

Like, I just turned 58 and I've been teaching third grade for thirty-five years in the same little school, the one I actually went to myself, and you’d think I’d have it all figured out by now. …

burnout denial

Like, someone was telling me this really sad, intense story the other day, about something truly awful that happened to them, and I was sitting there, nodding, making all the right noises, and inside… …

burnout denial

He’s a foreman at a big construction site down the road from where I grew up. …

burnout denial

My dad’s bistro. …

burnout denial

She's got this terrible headache, keeps rubbing her temples, but she's insisting to anyone who asks, which is usually just me, that it’s just her “seasonal allergies acting up. …

burnout denial

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do I keep saying yes to new work when I'm already burnt out?▾
Often, it stems from a desire to prove capability, a fear of missing out on opportunities, or an ingrained habit of always striving for more. The perceived rewards of taking on extra work can feel more immediate than the long-term benefits of rest.
What happens if I consistently ignore exhaustion and keep working?▾
Consistently pushing past exhaustion can lead to diminished quality of work, increased stress, and a higher risk of physical and mental health issues. It can also make it harder to recover and regain energy later on.
How can I resist the urge to take on more when I'm already tired?▾
Consider the real impact on your current commitments and well-being before committing. Practice pausing before responding to new requests and evaluate if the additional work truly aligns with your current capacity and priorities.

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