We’re halfway through 2025, and if you feel like you’ve been running on vibes and inshallah since February, welcome. Between office deadlines, black tax, traffic, side hustles, gym guilt, and trying to have a social life on top of it all, burnout is not just real, it’s Lagos-certified.
This isn’t about pending to-do lists. It’s about the chaos of trying to do everything in a city that never lets you chill. So, how do you know you’re burnt out — and what can you do about it?
Are You Burnt Out? Take the Lagos Weekender Scorecard
Give yourself 1 point for each “yes.”
If you score 3 or more, you’re in the mid-year burnout club. No shame — just time to reset.
- “Is it 5 p.m. yet?” is your daily mantra.
You’re always checking the time, not for plans, but to escape work. - Weekend comes, and you’re still tired.
You finally get time off… and your brain still feels like jollof left on the fire too long. - You’ve been dodging all hangouts.
Your “I’m tired” excuse is now your default response. - Snacks have replaced meals.
You’ve turned into a walking gala machine. - You’ve asked “What day is it?” more than twice this week.
Brain fog. Overload. Vibes only.
Scored 3 or More? Time to Lagos-Style Reset
Here’s how to recover without needing a passport or breaking the bank.
1. Quick Self-Care Fixes
- Hydration (highly underrated).
Keep water close: in a bottle, tumbler, or healthy beverages like Zobo and Kunu. Add mint or cucumber to your water if you’re feeling fancy. - Small-small zen moments.
Try 5-minute breathing exercises, stretch breaks, or just look outside and breathe (even if you’re staring at traffic on Third Mainland). - Skin sanity = mental sanity.
Dust and fumes dey Lagos. Wash your face, slap on sunscreen, moisturize, and go. Spa day or not.
2. Staycation, Not Stress-cation
Turn Your Room into a Spa
- Light a candle (or incense stick if that’s what’s available).
- Use your clean bedsheets. Add your Sunday best towel.
- Face mask + coconut oil on your scalp + soft playlist = peace.
Bonus: Close your eyes and pretend you’re on Ilashe. If your neighbor’s gen starts, just turn up the volume.
Book a Boutique Hotel (If You Can)
- Look for deals — some places offer pool access and free breakfast.
- Go solo. Order a mocktail. Take a nap. No noise, no pressure.
3. Escape Without Escaping
- Tarkwa Bay Reset:
Hop on a boat, eat grilled fish, and sleep under the cabana. You’ll feel 2 hours richer when you return. - Ilashe Overnight:
If you can swing it, do one night with zero screens and plenty of seafood. Let the breeze handle your therapy.
4. Reignite Your Spark
- Paint & Sip in Ikoyi:
No skills required. Just wine and vibes. Plus, you get a cute souvenir. - Yoga at Freedom Park or your compound’s balcony:
Your back and mind will thank you. Do it for your peace of mind and posture.
5. Protect Your Peace, Long-Term
- Have a “Me Day” every two weeks.
No calls. No catchups. Just your playlist and food. - Curate your timeline.
Mute stressy group chats. Follow more Lagos foodies, book pages, and feel-good content.
Final Word
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re weak. It means Lagos is doing what it does best, stretching everybody. The good news? You don’t have to leave town to feel better. Just step back, do less, and pour energy back into you. Your reset starts now—Lagos style.
