The work you have always enjoyed can soon become a burden if you do too much or take on more than you can handle. Positive stress can turn into negative stress. “Positive stress motivates you,” says Anneli. “However, if you are not getting enough sleep or rest or if you are not eating well and doing too much, you will soon burn out. That is why we have vacation days and work hours. True, sometimes you will have to work overtime. But when you do, you must take another day or even a half a day off to recharge.”

The good news is that most people who work with animals are happy. However, even those who love their jobs can feel overwhelmed at times. When a veterinarian is called in at 2 A.M. to assist with the delivery of a foal or calf, it is both exciting and exhausting. The veterinarian might have to work regular hours later that day. Maybe there is an important meeting that he must attend.

The trick is not only to have scheduled time off, but to actually take the time. It's easy to save vacation days. Maybe you will even get paid for working on those days. In the long run, though, it is wiser to take an occasional day off.

Did you know that vacations promote creativity? When you are relaxed and happy, you can easily reconnect with your creative side. Those who take regular vacations don't experience burnout, and they are more productive than those who never take time off.

In addition to taking regular vacations, try to take a few minutes each day to do something that makes you feel happy. Practicing yoga, tai chi, or exercising at the gym are great stress busters. You have to find what works for you. It could be singing or playing a musical instrument. Walking, running, or playing a team sport also reduces tension.

If you are working overtime all of the time, talk to your supervisor before burnout sets in. If you are self-employed, you can say no to clients. Don't take on more than you can handle. It's better to have three or four clients that you will work hard for than seven or eight. Three or four clients are manageable. You can devote enough time to each client and come up with results that will please everyone. With more clients than you can handle, the work will undoubtedly suffer. Aim to have a good work/life balance. This way you will enjoy both your work and your life.