Creative burnout and life burnout can look similar, but they need very different kinds of care. In this episode, Lori breaks down how to tell the difference, what questions to ask yourself, and how to give your mind and body the support they need. It's part reflection, part toolkit, and full of permission to rest.

Visit thepoetrylab.com to find the Show Notes for this episode. The Poetry Lab Podcast is produced by Danielle Mitchell, with special guest hosts Lori Walker, bridgette bianca, Leonora Simonovis and Ravina Wadhwani.

EPISODE GUIDE

Burnout isn't always what you think it is. This episode helps you identify whether you're creatively burned out or simply overwhelmed by life, and what to do next.

03:40 — Creative Burnout vs. Life Burnout
Why not all burnout is the same—and how misidentifying it keeps you stuck.

06:00 — What Creative Burnout Feels Like
When you've pushed too hard inside your creative practice and need reconnection, not discipline.

08:20 — What Life Burnout Looks Like
When exhaustion comes from outside your creative work—and writing isn't the problem.

10:40 — Choosing the Right Kind of Care
Creative burnout needs curiosity and space. Life burnout needs gentleness, triage, and rest.

12:00 — You Are Not Failing
A reframe for the guilt and self-blame that comes with losing momentum.

14:00 — Working With the Season You're In
How to respond to burnout with awareness instead of force—and give yourself what you actually need.

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