We are at that time of year when the end of the year is rapidly approaching but the size of our to-do list continues to grow.  We are caught between 2014 & 2015, pushing to complete 2014 year-end activities while at the same time, planning for next year’s goals. With this, distractions abound.  This post been created to try and help you navigate through the end-of-year chaos and identify ways to help you end the year safe and sound.

Fatigue is a result of physiological factors, it is not a state of mind.  Fatigue is often a root use of accidents.  Suffering from fatigue can lead to errors which in turn, may lead to accidents.  Some usual or contributing factors that lead to fatigue come from lack of basic health necessities such as diminished sleep, poor diet and exercise, increased stress, and known or unknown medical conditions.

Most of the time, we are able to nurture our work/life balance in order to combat and minimize the effects of fatigue.  However, during this time of year, when we throw in seasonal activities, end of year deadlines, planning for next year, holidays, shopping, visits to/from friends and family, and travel and quickly the delicate work/life balance gets thrown off.  Many of us, during this time of year, continue to push, go the extra step, throw in one more item to do and before you know it, an already full schedule becomes overwhelming, stress takes over and fatigue sets in.

Fatigue can be controlled.  The first step is to prevent it from happening but aside from prevention, you should be aware of the following signs and symptoms of fatigue:

Physical Signs:

• Head bobbing, nodding off
• Slower movements
• Heavy eyelids — slow rolling eye movements, blinking, bloodshot eyes
• Reduced motor coordination
• Unsteady on feet
• Slower than normal responses and reactions
• Excessive yawning
• Sluggishness or lack of energy
• Out-of-character facial expressions

Performance Signs:

• Easily distracted
• Difficulty concentrating, lapses in attention
• Difficulty completing tasks
• False perception of pability & performance
• Short term memory loss (not remembering, forgetting instructions)
• Lacking motivation to do tasks well, cutting corners, deviating from procedures

Mood Signs:

• Irritable or argumentative
• Easily frustrated or annoyed
• Becoming quiet and more withdrawn
• Feeling/appearing depressed

If you recognize one or more of these signs in yourself or others, STOP & REST. This is especially important before doing or continuing risky activities (e.g. driving, climbing ladders, etc.).  Remember, fatigue can be controlled and alleviated through healthy habits such as good sleep, proper nutrition and not over committing yourself.  So, when you’re adding the next item on your to-do list, make sure you schedule some time to take care of yourself and prevent fatigue from complicating the end of your year.