Dont get us wronga little snark about work is normal.

When the boss starts talking about synergizing core competencies, its normal to roll your eyes.

Were not talking about that post-lunch food coma.

Youre probably getting burned out.

Feelings of stagnation, as though your work just isnt getting you anywhere.

Boredom and detachment, even though you have work on your plate.

Being bored even though you have plenty of work to do is a sure sign things are heading downhill.

Higher-than-normal levels of procrastination.

Everyone procrastinates a little.

In fact, itsgood for you.

Too much, however, shows youre trying to get away from your work.

Maybe you just dislike it, or youre not inspired, or not motivated for whatever reason.

If its work youd otherwise do easily, its time to step back and take a breather.

Mysterious illnesses and above-average stress you cant seem to shake.

Keep an eye on your health.

The last thing you want is your overall health to suffer because of work.

The realization that youve never taken time off.

Dont let it get to that point.

All of these are some of the earlyphysical, psychological, and behavioral signs of burnout.

If theyre one-offs, thats fine.

What parts of your job do you like, and which do you hate doing every day?

Finally, take abigger look at your whole career.

Your personal life is more important than your job, but your job does pay the bills.

It makes sense to fix them both if theres a common problem between them.

Were not just talking about hanging around the water cooler, either.

It alsomakes you more productiveoverall, especiallyif you’re free to get outdoors for a bit.

Schedule a vacation now, for whenever.

If youre worried its not a good time, dont.

Theresnever a good time, so you should just go.

The benefits, even ifjust taking time off feels stressful, outweigh the drawbacks.

Then you cancome back strong, feeling refreshed.

Offload the crap and focus on what you love (or what actually matters to you.

Put it to paper.

But that makes it even more important.

Illustration by Jim Cooke.