My 5 Tips for Coming Back from Burnout

How many days do you finish work and think, what did I even do today? How did I not cross anything off my to-do list? That’s impossible. I have definitely been there and I know business owners, sales people, commission-based employees have been there too. The reason I’m speaking to this group of people is because every minute you’re not making money, you’re losing money, or so I’ve been told. I’m sure you have as well. We get stuck doing tasks we hope pay dividends in the future, but we aren’t sure and then along comes the waves of anxiety and doubt about how we even spent our time, when our next big bill is on the way.

           I don’t like the word hustle and I don’t want to describe my works as a grind, but I’ll admit, it can feel that way. I started my business to have flexibility and freedom, but some of the day to day tasks can drag my will down and make me feel like I’m spinning in circles. Is this the right move? Do I want to create this partnership? Who can I trust to take over this part of my business and run with it? If I take some time off will my business slow to a hault? These thoughts can be pervasive and trap us in a desperation mindset, which leads to fatigue, frustration, and eventually burnout.

           So when I hit this point and I start to recognize these signs and symptoms in my behavior, these are the things I do to bring energy back and find new purpose and inspiration.

1.    I remember my mission and my vision. Why did I start my business in the first place? If it was for money alone, that will probably not sustain me, but if I think of my business as a way to accomplish my future goals, I can get more energy from that. My mission is simple: “Help women in America become financial independent.” If what I’m doing, no matter how mundane, can do that, I’m on track.

2.    I give myself space to work on something creative. Frustration, fatigue, and burnout can be really tough to continue in your 9-5 with all the meetings and demands, but I’ve had some of my most creative streaks when I give myself time to go on a hike, write, and align myself with my greater purpose.

3.    I reflect on what is holding me back. What’s the best part of running a business? What brings me joy and lights me up? Whatever it is, get back to it! Put it on the schedule immediately and do it even if you’re unsure. For me, it’s teaching and collaborating with other like-minded professionals. If I don’t have these things, I can feel lost.

4.    I surround myself with positive messages. I’m going to get a little woo on you now and admit that my office is covered in quotes, affirmations, and my vision board. I am alone in my home office most of the day and these reminders really help me stay centered. Only post things near you that make you feel good and pump you up. As a business owner, it can be lonely and we can lose sight of the bigger vision, so keep it near you. What future are you building? Why does what you’re doing matter to you and the world?

5.    I ask for help. First of all, confession: I’m terrible at this and something I’m working on as a top priority. So I’ve hired a coach, signed up for online courses, and I listen to podcasts that inspire me. There are so many free options to begin and then eventually make an investment in someone who will invest in you. As a business owner, you are the center, you are (many times) the product, and your health and wellness mentally and physically is vital. Schedule some time every day to hear positive messages, feel supported, and then begin your day.

Overall, burnout is so common when we lose our why. So if you want to be a business owner who is both successful AND happy, using some of these tips to keep yourself in alignment with your mind and soul is so important. I don’t know how to run a business that my whole heart isn’t fully invested in; that’s not my style, so I speak from a place of compassion and understanding. It can be hard to put it all on the line to do what you’re so passionate about. And yeah, the money can be great, but let’s also be happy. I challenge you to be happy, to take care of your mind and soul, and to choose to make a difference with your important work.