As I reflect on the past week, I can’t help but feel like I’m at the end of my rope. The phrase “burning the candle at both ends” has been tossed my way more times than I can count. It’s often used to describe the fast-paced, high-demand nature of the career I’ve chosen. But lately, it’s begun to feel less like a clever metaphor and more like a diagnosis.
Burnout is no longer the exception—it’s becoming the norm. More and more people are leaving their professions, not simply because they want a change, but possibly because something deeper is at play. In a culture that’s always online and always on, the space for rest, reflection, and emotional reset is shrinking. Social media amplifies this, encouraging comparison over connection and noise over nuance.
And then there’s the negativity—subtle, persistent, and unrelenting. For some reason, those negative comments seem to echo louder and last longer. I’ve noticed it in myself lately: reacting more than responding, feeling the sting of words more deeply than before. It’s not just about having a bad day. It’s the cumulative weight of stress, criticism, self-doubt, and pessimism that slowly chips away at our emotional resilience.
A quote I recently came across stopped me in my tracks: “Negativity is more than just bad vibes or a tough week. It’s the slow, consistent drip of stress, criticism, self-doubt, and pessimism that gradually erodes our mental and emotional resilience.”
Earlier this year, I recognized the need for boundaries. For years, I have accepted items past the last minute. I have worked after hours and on weekends to ensure things get into the weekly edition; however, this has taken a toll on me and my family. Cutting back on weekend work, carving out time for rest, and learning not to carry everything home. It’s a work in progress, but it’s a necessary one.
This week is “Be Your Best” week, and I can’t think of a better reminder. It doesn’t mean doing the most. Sometimes, it means knowing when to pause, when to say no, and when to protect your peace. Let’s commit to doing better— for ourselves and for each other.
Robin Wunderlich
Quote of the Week You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them. Maya Angelou
