From Pressure to Power: Navigating Burnout

I recently gave a workshop to a group of leaders who are in the news industry. I’d like to share one of the topics that resonated deeply with the attendees: navigating burnout and cultivating resilience.

As high-achieving professionals, we carry the weight of immense responsibilities, and the added challenges of balancing personal and professional lives can leave us feeling fatigued and depleted. Now, we can all rise to the occasion when called upon, but valiantly trudging through day after day - after day - meeting demands cannot be the ONLY option. Because exposure to chronic stress will lead us straight to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. 

So let's dig into a few strategies that'll help you thrive and prevent burnout.

1️⃣ As a senior leader, you may find yourself constantly striving for perfection in your work and decision-making. But can we take a moment to remember that perfection is an illusion? Embracing imperfections and setbacks is a valuable part of your growth journey. Instead of dwelling on perceived shortcomings, view it as an opportunity to learn, adapt, and grow.

Real-Life Example: Presenting a new strategy to the board and being unprepared for the tough questions they pummeled you with. Instead of beating yourself up, ask a trusted team member to help you prepare for the next go-around by brainstorming questions and preparing responses. Embracing the imperfections of the situation and adjusting your plan accordingly can demonstrate resilience and inspire your team to do the same.

2️⃣ Set Boundaries with Compassion: In a large organization, the demands on your time and energy can be overwhelming. It's crucial to set clear boundaries to protect your well-being and prevent burnout. Consider your priorities and identify where you can delegate tasks or seek support. For instance, decline a request to take on additional responsibilities if it stretches you too thin.

Real-Life Example: The lines between work and home are blurred with the constant stream of emails, slack messages, and phone calls. Setting boundaries around your availability can help you maintain a healthy work-life balance and prevent burnout. Choosing not to reply to that slack message until after you've had dinner with your family might be just what the doctor ordered.

3️⃣ Prioritize Self-Reflection and Growth: In the fast-paced environment, taking time for self-reflection and personal growth may feel like a luxury. However, it's essential for your long-term success and well-being. Create moments to pause and evaluate your own growth, strengths, and areas for improvement. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors to gain new perspectives.

Real-Life Example: Carving out time - and defending it - for self-reflection can help you identify patterns or behaviors that contribute to burnout. For instance, reflecting on your leadership style during a challenging team project can reveal opportunities for growth, such as improving communication or delegating more effectively. Working with an executive coach can help you set goals, develop strategies, and stay accountable. 

4️⃣ Seek Support and Connection: Leading in a large organization can sometimes feel isolating, but remember, you're not alone. This is where work friends come in! They understand the context and unique challenges you face. Building meaningful connections within your organization can provide a support system and a sounding board for ideas and concerns.

Real-Life Example: Engaging in regular one-on-one meetings with a mentor or joining a peer group of senior leaders can provide valuable support and guidance. Sharing experiences, discussing challenges, and seeking advice from those who have navigated similar situations can foster resilience and prevent burnout.

Your well-being matters. And life comes with enough struggles without the added stress that burnout brings. Finding a balance between success and self-care is key to long-term success.

Wishing you a journey filled with growth, resilience, and meaningful connections as you lead with purpose.