We the Leaders HQ

on energy and leadership

—

by

MICHELLECANTUWILSON
in

and the little things we can do to prevent burnout

I just read my own title and laughed. I know some of you did, too. These two ideas don’t seem to go together very well, do they?

I don’t know about you, but I had much more physical energy before I became a leader.

After stepping into leadership, it felt like my brain needed to be on the treadmill—not my body. My body simply became a host for the furiously intense mental load of leadership.

At that time, I focused on reading more, learning more, thinking more, overthinking more, stressing more, and panicking more.

My daily motivational posts on social media revolved around pushing through, staring stress in the face, and being stronger.

Bless my own heart.

The Reality of Burnout

I’ve experienced work burnout twice in my career. The first time was because of the attitude I just described. The second time? Because I just don’t learn.

Once again, I became a host body for my overwrought brain.

This time, though, I was older, more exhausted, and—finally—ready to accept that I needed change. I didn’t arrive at this realization through self-awareness alone. Instead, I was forced to slow down, paralyzed by exhaustion and traumatized by an unhealthy work environment. Only then did I come to terms with some very profound truths:

  • I didn’t want to kill myself with work. (This one deserves the top spot.)
  • I actually felt better when I got 8 hours of sleep. (I had never tried this in 48 years of life.)
  • Being exhausted every day for my entire adult life was offensive.
  • I was a Grade-A horrible parent as an overworked, self-important leader.
  • Everything hurt in burnout: my feelings, my feet, my neck, my back, my thoughts. I was a walking ball of pain, and I did NOT want to live that way anymore.

Shifting Priorities: The Power of Restoration

So, I stopped making work my identity and started focusing on my family and the things I actually enjoyed—long walks, kickboxing, singing, laughing with friends, and writing.

Disclaimer: It was not an instant fix.

Instead, it felt like low tide in my mind. Low tide in my nerves. The pressure and build-up were kept at bay long enough for me to feel restored.

I never realized this before, but low tide is crucial. When the tide is low, tide pools are left behind, and in these pools, tiny plants and animals live and thrive. No need to elaborate—just close your eyes and picture those perfect little tide pools.

Energy Comes from Living, Not Just Leading

Leaders need energy, no doubt about it. But they cannot rely on mental energy and a positive attitude alone. Instead, they need a balance of physical well-being, emotional resilience, and sustainable work habits. Research shows that prioritizing rest and recovery enhances decision-making and overall performance. (Harvard Business Review)

Because even as you’re leading and working, you are still living.

You don’t start living your life when you leave the office. You are living all day long. This is not Severance. (I won’t say more—just look it up.)

How to Build Energy (Without Burning Out)

Make time—yes, MAKE TIME—for the things you love. Studies show that leaders who engage in hobbies and personal passions perform better at work. (Forbes)

As a leader, you need to feel energized and motivated. As a human being, you deserve to feel energized and motivated.

Here are a few small but powerful strategies to prevent burnout:

  • Prioritize sleep and rest – Leaders need proper rest to make effective decisions.
  • Engage in physical activity – Exercise releases stress and improves mental clarity.
  • Set boundaries at work – Avoid letting work consume your personal life.
  • Take intentional breaks – Even short pauses throughout the day improve focus.
  • Connect with loved ones – Strong relationships provide emotional support.

Final Thoughts: Looking Out for Each Other

So, take a deep breath and promise to take better care of yourself.

If you’re struggling with burnout, remember that you’re not alone. Many leaders experience it, but recovery starts with small, intentional changes.

For additional insights on burnout prevention, check out these resources:

Keep me posted on your progress, and share this with another leader you know.

Let’s all look out for each other.