Leadership Burnout Recovery Tips

As a leader I found myself sinking further and further into the quicksand of tasks, to-do lists and never ending new projects. That on top of personal life chaos was a perfect storm for burnout. Here are a few tips to help you begin your recovery journey as a leader. Utilize the burnout recovery workbook as a tool to help guide you through: Burnout Guide & Workbook

1. Take breaks throughout the day to reset your mind and energy. This could be as simple as going for a walk or taking a few deep breaths. Remove the screens when possible! 
2. Set boundaries and stick to them. Learn to say no when you're feeling overwhelmed or when the task is not your responsibility. If you are saying 'yes'...what are you saying 'no' to?
3. Practice mindfulness and meditation to help reduce stress and anxiety. This space gives thoughts a chance to pass instead of bottling up inside. I have found even just staring at a wall for a few minutes can do the trick until you have more time!
4. Delegate tasks to your team members to alleviate some of the workload on yourself. Yes, that means you will have to let go. This is a crucial step going from micromanager to coach. 
5. Seek support from a mentor or 3rd party coach to work through what's on your mind. The more that stays in, the more that manifests into a monster that will grow from the inside-out. 
6. Prioritize self-care, including exercise, healthy eating, and adequate sleep. I know, I hated when people told me that too. But how to you expect to recover without taking back some control of your life?!
7. Take a half or full day off to recharge and disconnect from work. That means no email or texts! 
8. Engage in activities that bring you joy outside of work, whether it's a hobby or spending time with loved ones or those that re-energize you. Sometimes we find the imbalance is not just at work, but at home as well. 
9. Communicate openly and honestly with your team about your burnout and what you're doing to recover. This can help foster a culture of openness and support.
10. Focus on the bigger picture and the impact your leadership has on your team. Remember why you became a leader in the first place and strive to make a positive difference.

We work through these tools during in-person leadership workshops in which learning is done through play and activities. An experience to remember and tools you will feel confident in applying when getting back to the real world! Check it out here: Leadership Services