burnkeepers

A burnkeeper is a term that emerged primarily within online communities, particularly those focused on mental health and personal well-being. It refers to an individual who has experienced a significant period of burnout and has subsequently dedicated themselves to understanding, managing, and often preventing burnout in themselves and others. The term implies a conscious effort to learn from a past experience of extreme exhaustion, both physical and mental.

Burnkeepers often share their journeys and coping mechanisms through blogs, social media, or support groups. Their insights can range from practical strategies for self-care and time management to deeper reflections on societal pressures and work-life balance. They may advocate for systemic changes in workplaces or communities that contribute to burnout. The role of a burnkeeper is largely self-appointed and driven by a desire to help others avoid or recover from similar difficult periods. It is not a formal profession, but rather a designation adopted by those who have navigated the challenging terrain of burnout and emerged with valuable, lived experience.