Burnout and the Holidays: How to Rise Above It All

"It's like a jungle sometimes, it makes me wonder how I keep from going under." (Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five, "The Message")Let’s be real: If this year has felt like a jungle, you’re not alone. But you don’t have to keep going under—there’s a way to rise above it all.

Between elections that may have had you feeling like everyone is divided, layoffs that have left many feeling uncertain, even some unpredictable weather that’s thrown our routines out the window, 2024 has tested us all. And now, as we approach the holiday season—the time of year that’s supposed to feel joyful and bright—you might be feeling anything but that.

You’re not alone.

The holidays can amplify everything. If you’re already feeling stretched thin, the pressure to show up, buy the gifts, host the gatherings, and hit those year-end goals can tip you right into burnout territory. I get it because I’ve been there—stuck in the cycle of trying to do it all, ignoring the signs, and paying the price.

But here’s what I’ve learned: you don’t have to go it alone, and you don’t have to keep running on empty.

"No one’s got it all together, we all lose our way sometimes..."(Kelly Clarkson, "Broken & Beautiful")

1. Let Go of Perfection

We’ve been sold this idea that the holidays have to look a certain way—perfect tablespaces, matching pajamas, and a career that’s somehow thriving in the middle of all this chaos. But here’s the truth: perfection is overrated.

Instead of focusing on what you think you should do, focus on what truly matters to you. Maybe that’s skipping the elaborate dinner and ordering takeout. Maybe it’s saying no to the 10th holiday party. Let this season be about presence, not perfection. I said no to a few things that I almost felt obligated to attend and I caught myself - I politely declined and hit up a yoga class instead last week then took myself for sushi afterwards. It was heavenly!

2. Acknowledge the Year You’ve Had

This wasn’t an easy year. Layoffs hit close to home. Unpredictable weather disrupted plans. The headlines were relentless. But you’re still here. You made it through challenges that could have knocked you down.

Take a moment to acknowledge that. Not in a “look on the bright side” way, but in a “wow, I’ve shown up for myself in ways I didn’t think I could” way. Celebrate your resilience because it’s real, and it’s what’s going to carry you forward. You may laugh at this, but try literally giving yourself a pat on the shoulder and saying "you did good self- I am proud of you". You will feel silly, but you'd be surprised by how cheerful it actually feels!

Lean on me, when you're not strong, and I'll be your friend, I'll help you carry on..."(Bill Withers, "Lean on Me")

3. Find Your People

Burnout thrives in isolation, but it doesn’t have to be that way. As Bill Withers reminds us, leaning on others makes everything feel more doable. The truth is, we’re not meant to navigate challenges alone. The most powerful thing you can do is find a community that lifts you up and reminds you of what’s possible.

This fall I created the Rising Beyond Power Collective. It’s a space for women —directors, VPs, and CxOs—especially women of color, who are done with burnout and ready to redefine success on their terms. It’s where we connect, share, and grow together.

Because when you’re surrounded by people who get it, everything feels more doable. Check out the links below you want to learn more!

4. Set Boundaries That Protect Your Energy

This season, practice the art of saying no. No to things that drain you. No to the pressure to meet everyone else’s expectations. When you say no to what doesn’t serve you, you create space to say yes to what truly matters.

5. Remember, This is a Season, Not a Deadline

The end of the year can feel like a ticking clock, but life doesn’t start or stop on January 1. You don’t have to have all the answers or all your goals perfectly aligned. Progress happens in seasons, not overnight. Think about a tree. In the winter, it sheds its leaves and stands bare, conserving energy. It’s not growing new branches or bearing fruit—it’s resting. But this rest is essential for its growth in spring, when the buds appear, and eventually, the fruits flourish in summer.

"Every new beginning comes from some other beginning's end."(Semisonic, "Closing Time")

The tree doesn’t rush its process, it's not out there trying to bloom in the middle of winter. It understands that each season serves its purpose: rest, growth, or renewal.

Just like that tree, your journey doesn’t need to be complete by January 1. This season is your opportunity to rest, reflect, and recharge—without the pressure to fix everything right now.

Thanks for subscribing this year, I am excited to craft some amazing topics for you in 2025 and if you have something specific in mind- let me know. You showed up this year for yourself and sometimes, that is more than enough.

My Wish for You: I hope you give yourself the gift of patience and grace this season. May you find moments of peace, joy, and renewal as you prepare for the growth and opportunities that lie ahead. Remember, you are exactly where you need to be, and your next chapter will unfold beautifully—in its own time. Wishing you and your loved ones a season of rest, reflection, and hope. ?? - Stacey Luces.

P.S. Santa Came Early—Here’s Your Gift of Growth and Renewal!

Want to Step Into Your Next Season with Clarity and Confidence?

This holiday season, I’m sharing resources to help you break free from burnout and step into authentic leadership:

?? Free Micro-Course: Reclaim Your Power - Discover practical strategies to redefine success and align your career with your values.

??? My Podcast: Beyond the Quo - Tune in to inspiring stories and actionable advice from leaders who have redefined what it means to lead authentically. Listen Now

??Craving community? Join the Free Rising Beyond Power Collective Empowering Women of Color to live life and create wealth & legacy - on their own terms.

Take these as my gifts to you—a starting point for a season of renewal, reflection, and growth.

P.P.S- Loved what you read? If this message resonated with you and sparked a fire within, don't keep it to yourself - spread the inspiration:

?? Like this post if you're ready to leverage some of these strategies!

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