In today’s fast-paced world, I realise many individuals prioritize their responsibilities over their own well-being. It’s common to see people overworking themselves in pursuit of superficial rewards such as fame, status, and luxury. While it may seem like everyone is striving to meet their basic needs, statistics reveal that only a small percentage—around 9% in Indonesia —actually need to work long hours for survival.

The situation has worsened in our modern era, largely due to the impact of social media. These platforms often promote unrealistic aspirations, particularly among young people, who find themselves chasing unattainable goals at an early age. The relentless pursuit of productivity, wealth, and consumerism has intensified, even in developing nations.

As a result, many young people are experiencing burnout. They become overly ambitious, setting goals that are out of reach, and often forget to take time for themselves. It’s crucial to learn how to slow down and reassess priorities, ensuring that personal well-being is not sacrificed in the quest for external (community) validation.

By reassessing our priorities, we can make wiser decisions about where to invest our time, helping to prevent feelings of burnout.

Additionally, it’s important to shift your mindset to recognize that not everything is your responsibility. Taking time to rest is essential for maintaining your well-being.

It’s like running a marathon: you need to adjust your speed and breathing throughout the race instead of sprinting all the time to finish.