Sometimes in burnout our focus is so finite.
We can only see the fire,
the smoke,
the weight.
The tasks that have to be done.
Not what the drive is doing to us.
Burnout can catch you like lightning
that starts a wildfire.
The conditions were there the whole time,
but one strike—
and nothing is okay,
manageable,
safe.
You are,
just
barely
coping.
You think,
I just have to get through this,
stomping on the accelerator.
Ignoring the smell of smoke.
Put the foot on the brake.
Pause.
Breathe.
Listen for the whisper.