‘One person is always working’: When Anushka Sharma spoke about balancing marriage with Virat Kohli amid back-to-back shoots; how busy couples can stay close

In another interview with host Simi Garewal, Anushka also revealed she had decided to consciously take a break after Zero to avoid burnout. “I wanted to take a couple of months off after Zero. After I got married, it was like a whirlwind. I was back on the sets shooting for Sui Dhaaga and later Zero. I was just working back-to-back. Whatever time I’d get, I’d try to balance and meet Virat. But I was feeling too worked up. I told my team I don’t even want to read anything right now,” she said.

So, what are the early signs of emotional or physical burnout in professionals trying to juggle personal and professional roles?

Sonal Khangarot, licensed rehabilitation counsellor and psychotherapist, The Answer Room, tells indianexpress.com, Some early signs of emotional or physical burnout in high-performing professionals often show up in subtle yet persistent ways. Emotional exhaustion is one of the first red flags—feeling chronically drained, detached, or numb even when there’s no obvious trigger.”

 

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Physical symptoms like headaches, disrupted sleep, frequent illnesses, or digestive issues may also surface as the body bears the brunt of constant stress. Many professionals begin to feel increasingly cynical, disconnected from their work or relationships, and may withdraw from support systems, believing others won’t understand. 

Recognising these signs early is crucial, because burnout isn’t just about overwork—it’s about a chronic misalignment between what you’re giving and what you’re receiving emotionally, physically, and psychologically, notes the expert.

Maintaining emotional intimacy when time together is severely limited due to work commitments and travel

Khangarot explains, “When time together is scarce due to work and travel, emotional intimacy doesn’t have to suffer—it just needs to evolve. The key is intentionality. Even brief moments can be powerful when they’re mindful and emotionally attuned.”

A 5-minute call or voice note every day just to ask, “How are you feeling today?”—not just “How was your day?”—can create a thread of emotional closeness. Whether it’s a good morning text, a shared playlist, or a virtual coffee on video, these little rituals become anchors in a busy life.

“When you’re apart, don’t just share logistics. Share what moved you that day, what you struggled with, or a thought that made you smile. Vulnerability builds intimacy. Technology can become a lifeline—schedule date nights online, play games together, or watch the same movie while apart and discuss it after,” says Khangarot. 

She adds, “When you do meet, resist the temptation to pack the time with errands or social obligations. Prioritise quality, meaningful connection over quantity.”