Running on Empty: A Poem About Burnout

There’s nothing like the burnout,
Where emotions are contained, like a gas tank.
The heaviness of tiredness, guilt and being overwhelmed,
Trying not to combust, with daily tears.

There’s nothing like the burnout,
Consumed by lack of confidence and doubt.
A thousand thoughts, racing like a car,
The heart strung, like the strings of a guitar.

There’s nothing like the burnout,
Where you don’t feel like who you used to be.
Every word and every action, draining the last bit of energy,
Feeling restricted and bound by your own capabilities.

There’s nothing like the burnout,
Where even the dreams feel chaotic.
Storylines written and produced from anxiety,
The premiere of uncertainty becomes a priority.