If you're a leader, founder, or manager experiencing symptoms of burnout, you're likely not following these three basic principles.
As leaders, we often forget that sustained performance requires deliberate recovery—just like elite athletes.
We've been exploring Michel Koopman's insightful approach to leadership sustainability, which frames executives as "business athletes." His research reveals three core principles that prevent burnout:
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Regularly assess what activities drain and replenish your energy.
How is your current calendar draining you? Take these regular check-ins to start to cut down on the activities that are like junk food for your body. Just like an athlete would.
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Schedule dedicated time for mental, emotional, and physical recharging.
Recovery is not an option. Just like you can overtrain in the gym, you can overwork your mind. You can't give any more than you've got, and without taking time to recharge, your staff are just getting a lesser version of you each day. Think of it this way—rest isn't for you—it's for the team you seek to serve.
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Develop habits like mindfulness, exercise, and meaningful connections.
Social connection and time with family shouldn't be optional. It's time you can take to debrief, learn new perspectives, and receive empathy. If you're a human being, then you need it, so make time for it.
The most successful leaders don't work 24/7—they work smarter by honouring their need for recovery.
What's one recovery practice you've incorporated into your routine? Share below! ??
Inspired by the work of Michel Koopman, Executive Coach
