FROM ASHES TO FLAMES: REIGNITING AFTER BURNOUT – MY JOURNEY TO RENEWAL By Devi Paulsen-Abbott

In the whirlwind of life—especially in the fast-paced events and exhibition industry—it’s far too easy to lose ourselves in the work we love. Trust me, I know this all too well. My own journey, marked by profound burnout, has imparted invaluable lessons about balance, health, and the necessity of nurturing ourselves amid demanding careers. So, grab a comfy seat, because this is a deeply personal story that I hope will resonate with you—if only to save you from my mistakes!

Recently, life delivered a stark reminder of its fragility with the sudden passing of my dear friend and former colleague, Beryl Perkins . Many in the South African events industry were fortunate to work alongside her, and her unexpected departure due to a heart attack sent shockwaves for many of us. Beryl’s loss reinforced a truth I had started to grasp during my own struggles: our health must always come first. Ignoring the signs or postponing that check-up is a gamble we simply can’t afford to take.

My battle with burnout began as a creeping fatigue, morphing into a sense of disconnection. I was consumed by the mission to develop and grow—doing more, achieving more—often sacrificing sleep, neglecting exercise, and indulging in questionable food choices. I pushed myself beyond my limits, convinced that my dedication would yield success. Spoiler alert: it didn’t.

?It wasn’t until a health scare earlier this year that I recognized the urgent need for change. In the past, I might have brushed off the warning signs, convincing myself that I was too busy or too dedicated to take a break and sorted myself out with a massage or juice fast for a day. Fortunately, this time, I sought help swiftly and addressed the issue before it escalated.

?In her thought-provoking book REAL SELF CARE (crystals, cleanses, and bubble baths not included), Pooja Lakshmin, MD , a women’s mental health specialist and New York Times contributor—challenges the superficial notions of self-care that have become all too common in our culture. With “self-care” now tossed around like confetti, encompassing everything from juice cleanses to luxury wellness products, Lakshmin argues that this trend is not just inadequate; it can be downright harmful. She critiques the wellness industry for promoting a version of self-care that distracts women from addressing deeper societal issues, perpetuating a cycle of comparison and unrealistic expectations.

Lakshmin emphasises that genuine self-care is not about external solutions or trendy products; instead, it’s an internal, reflective process that requires us to confront our values and make tough choices. This authentic approach empowers us to transform our relationships and workplaces, fostering a deeper sense of well-being that transcends consumerism. By advocating for a shift from superficial self-care to a more meaningful practice, Lakshmin calls for a collective awakening—one that could lead to significant societal change in how we understand and implement self-care in our lives.

This book—and my time for reflection—has opened my eyes to the critical importance of self-care. It’s not merely about taking time off or indulging in hobbies; it’s about actively prioritizing our well-being every day. Our diet, exercise, sleep, and mental health must receive the same attention as our ambitions, goals, and metrics of success. Spoiler alert: those metrics will support your ambitions and goals tenfold!

I’ve learned that to contribute meaningfully to our professional visions and missions, we must first take care of ourselves. After all, we only have one life to live. If we’re unwell, we cannot fulfil our potential or support those around us.

?As I navigate this ongoing journey of recovery and balance, I’m reminded of the shared experiences we have in the events industry. We are passionate, loyal, and hardworking individuals driven by a collective vision. Yet we must step back and recognise that our greatest asset is our health.

?A sobering statistic reveals that many health issues—heart attacks, dementia, and strokes—can often be traced back to habits formed in our 20s. This insight offers invaluable lessons that resonate deeply with many of us:

• Listen to Your Body: Recognise when something feels off. Ignoring symptoms can lead to bigger issues down the line, so seeking medical advice when needed is crucial.
• Prioritise Self-Care: Make time for rejuvenating activities. Whether it’s a quiet moment with a book, a walk in nature, or simply a day off, self-care should be non-negotiable.
• Establish Boundaries: In today’s fast-paced environment, the lines between work and personal life often blur. Setting clear boundaries is essential to protect your time and energy.
• Foster Supportive Relationships: Surrounding yourself with uplifting individuals can make a significant difference. Leaning on a support system during tough times is invaluable.
• Embrace Imperfection: Accept that it’s okay not to have everything figured out.

?As I continue my journey toward reigniting my passion, I carry Beryl’s memory with me. I feel a profound responsibility to honour her life by emphasising the importance of health and well-being, while staying vigilant to the signs around us.

?This journey is ongoing; I may not be where I want to be just yet, but the awareness I’ve gained is a vital first step. As we pursue our dreams, let’s also remember to prioritise our well-being along the way.

?So, let’s commit to nurturing our personal health AND our professional passions. Together, we can cultivate a culture in our industry that values our health as much as hard work. By doing so, we can rise stronger and ensure that we not only live but truly thrive in this one, precious life.

AAXO - Association of African Exhibition Organisers Kerry McIntosh Jeremy Abbott Claire Volkwyn Le-Ann Hare Zazél Sale