More Ways to Prevent Diabetes Burnout

Motivation comes and goes, often in waves. You’ve likely had those weekend warrior projects followed by those times where you don’t want to get off the couch. So it’s no surprise that sometimes you may feel burnout on managing your diabetes.

Tips for dealing with diabetes burnout

Here are some more tips to get you back on track when dealing with burnout because of type 2 diabetes.

Listen to something fun

Having something you really look forward to listening to can be just the ticket to keep you grooving through your routines. Whether you’re doing another home work out, taking a long walk or hike, or cooking up some healthy meals in the kitchen, having fun audio can add some motivation and excitement if you’re prone to getting bored or stopping early. Try downloading a music album you’re excited about or creating a new playlist that makes you feel good. If you’re tired of your music, ask your friends for recommendations or search for a pre-made mix that fits your mood or activity level.

Podcasts are also an excellent soundtrack for a healthy routine! These days you can find countless entertaining podcasts about practically anything you might be interested in, and for free! Download and enjoy while you’re working on your healthy meal prep or getting some exercise in. If books on tape are what excite you, there are great apps and services for this too! You can look forward to listening to your favorite author or zoom through new novels as you stay on track with your health goals. You can purchase a monthly subscription to books, or get audible books through your library.

Add a gadget to your life

Extra material things simply aren’t a requirement to maintain good health with type 2 diabetes. However, there are some products out there that may be worth it for you if they can keep you motivated to goal set and support your health and improve your quality of life!

Think about the health goals you may be struggling to stay on track with the most, and whether there’s a tool out there that could really amp up your progress. Out of sight, out of mind! If you don't see the tools, you won't use them! Maybe you need to buy a new yoga mat and some five-pound colorful weights that you store in front of the TV. New rule - no TV without 20 minutes of floor exercises! Remember building muscle mass helps burn calories. Or if you would love listening to something while exercising but your headphones continuously fall out of your ears, maybe investing in a new pair will keep you walking for an extra mile! Or, if cooking healthy meals every week has become an excessively time-consuming or dreadful chore, maybe a slow-cooker or Instapot could be just the tool you need to make easy one-pot meals that help you eat nutritiously. Sometimes even a new cookbook can be something to look forward to in the kitchen!

Attend an in-person diabetes support group

What better way to get back into the type 2 diabetes zone than being around others who are experiencing some of the same things you’re going through - peer support.

It’s also a great way to meet new people – some of whom you may have things in common with, while others you might not. Across the spectrum of our spectacular melting pot of a country, you'll make a connection! Not to mention, you’ll be surrounded by exceptionally qualified healthcare professionals such as Registered Dietitian or Certified Diabetes Educator (CDEs), who are sound resources there to offer you nutrition and lifestyle advice. It’s a wonderful opportunity to share stories of diabetes-related struggles, and it's okay to be vulnerable with those who share similar experiences. You’ll learn a lot about yourself and others, and you won’t feel alone, especially at those times when you have self-doubts managing the natural ebbs-and-flows of an ongoing health condition while dealing with the rest of your life. It’s a win-win situation: and in a way, an altruistic gesture as your supporting others too. So, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there!

Become a diabetes spokesperson

Have you ever thought about actively representing the diabetes community? According to the CDC, nearly 9% (29 million) of our country of 329 million has type 2 diabetes, while another 25% (84 million) have prediabetes. That’s a huge segment of our population who might benefit from hearing your story. There are so many ways for you to embrace your condition and share it with others around you. You could speak at local libraries, community centers, or schools. You could write an op-ed piece, which could be featured in your local newspaper or an online publication. You could start your own blog and build a loyal following of enthusiastic supporters. Who knows? This might eventually lead to a book deal! Hey! You never know. This type of experience could refocus you and reinvigorate your efforts to manage your condition. And don't forget to join our community here at type2diabetes.com.

Schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN)

Arguably, there’s nothing more tried-and-true to get you back on the diabetes lifestyle bandwagon than by consulting an expert. Who could be more adept at supporting your individual diabetes-focused diet and exercise goals than a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN)/certified diabetes educator (CDE)? Find one that meets your personality expectations. Hit “refresh” and take the plunge by seeing someone whose job it is to listen, be non-judgmental, and give you sound advice on how to manage type 2 diabetes, especially when it comes to your nutrition needs. You’d be surprised and recharged by gaining valuable insight – and a potentially new perspective from such a knowledgeable source.