In my latest video, I share some insights into preventing burnout; how it happens and how to avoid it.
It is not the case that every hard working executive suffers from burnout, though too many do. It is also NOT inevitable.
Yet, there is a paradox about who does get burned out: Heart-centered and compassionate leaders are deeply devoted to their work and immediately excel in what they do: purposeful businesses, non-profits, social work, medicine, you name it.
Because of this, these executives are more vulnerable to burnout than others.
However, this does NOT mean that preventing burnout requires giving up on compassion and empathy. On the contrary, it just means you need to show more of those qualities toward yourself.
In my years of work with executives in a variety of industries, I’ve developed three strategies for preventing burnout. By addressing burnout at its core, you will be able to “get in the driver’s seat” of your energy, wellbeing, and purpose.
Since heart-centered leaders tend to be over-givers, setting limits on themselves can be difficult. If you feel yourself heading toward burnout, you should:
- Stop over-investing your energy in your work.
- Know what feels rewarding in your work and create these experiences throughout the day.
- Know when it’s time to move on.
These are the foundation for building a more mindful approach to leadership that enables you to be compassionate toward others – but also to yourself.
3 Stages of Burnout
When you dedicate most of your energy to your work, it’s easy to lose perspective. Even when you’re not working, that part of your brain is constantly running in the background. Your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing are your most important assets. You should take time each day to practice bringing value to these assets!
One of the key impediments to working in a flow state is anxiety. The good news is that, as a leader, you can shape your day intentionally to include activities that’ll allow you to create the state of flow. This requires creating certain boundaries and tuning into your needs.
Now and again, you might ask yourself whether it’s time for something else; maybe apply to a new position, start a new career, or make some essential changes in your business. But to create something new you have to let things go and bring it to an end. The idea of ending things, especially relationships, is scary so, you tend to stay where you are.
There is a great deal more to say about this subject, and I share my thoughts on it in the video. However, when it comes to preventing burnout, it’s important to know how it begins before you can address the issue in your own life.
Watch the video for more detail and insight and then, if you have more questions, feel free to contact me for answers.
