Why is exhaustion considered a badge of honor?
Last week, I shared my burnout story and explained what burnout really means. During a recent book interview, we explored this topic deeply, including an intriguing question: Why is exhaustion considered a badge of honor, and how can we change this mindset?
Workaholics Anonymous highlights that "work addiction is uniquely socially sanctioned and financially rewarded." Many companies normalize excessive hours and "doing whatever it takes" to complete tasks, regardless of personal cost. When I was working late nights, no manager ever suggested I go home and finish tomorrow. This culture persists because it's been standard practice for so long, and because many leaders reward this behavior.
It's time for change, and many companies are now recognizing the serious consequences of employee burnout. How do we shift this culture? Companies need the courage to challenge established norms. As individuals, we must prioritize our well-being by taking a stand for ourselves. Exhaustion doesn't have to be worn as a badge of honor!
I've discussed burnout prevention strategies for both organizations and individuals. Today, I want to focus on what you personally can do to prevent burnout—advice I regularly share with my clients, tailored to their specific burnout level.
The crucial first step is slowing down enough to recognize you're experiencing burnout by understanding its symptoms. This awareness typically arrives as a realization: "This is not the life I want."
Once you acknowledge your desire for change, start small. Ask yourself: "What is one small adjustment I can make to move in a positive direction away from burnout?" Since you're already overwhelmed, avoid adding numerous new practices to your busy schedule. Remember that overcoming burnout requires fundamental lifestyle changes—challenging but necessary work!
Small Steps Towards Refilling Your Tank
Slow down enough to notice what you are feeling and experiencing, judgment-free.
Don’t bury it and carry on. Talk with someone: a colleague, family member, therapist, or certified coach.
Start setting boundaries & practice saying NO!
Make YOU important! If you don’t take care of yourself, you can’t take care of anyone else.
Embrace exercise and prioritize sleep. Rest & recovery are really important.
Practice self-compassion, gratitude, mindfulness, and meditation. (It really does help!)
Realize that self-care is not self-indulgent.
Leaving work completely or taking time off work to heal may be necessary and essential.
Burnout recovery requires time, awareness, self-compassion, and patience. Ask yourself: "What is my personal cost if I continue down the burnout path?"
My own journey began in 2017, and I still notice myself slipping back into old patterns. It wasn't until my husband's cancer surgery and recovery that I gained clarity about my core belief: "I'm still connecting my 'busy-ness and work' to my value as a human in society." This deeply embedded mindset is what I continue to discover and challenge. I'm learning to create space to focus on "being" versus "doing"—recognizing there's an appropriate time and place for both.
If you're experiencing burnout—whether job-related, personal, or general life exhaustion—I can help. Know that it doesn't have to stay this way!