Why burnout is so hard to fix (and why its on the rise)
As a female entrepreneur juggling countless responsibilities, we know you’re no stranger to the hustle. We get it—running your own business is like riding a rollercoaster: thrilling, fast-paced, and sometimes, downright exhausting. If you've been feeling more overwhelmed than inspired lately, you're not alone. Burnout is becoming an all-too-common pitfall for many of us, and fixing it can feel like an uphill battle. Let's dive into why burnout is so hard to shake off and why it’s increasingly becoming a part of our entrepreneurial journey.
Understanding Burnout
Burnout isn't just feeling tired after a long week. It's a state of chronic physical and emotional exhaustion, often accompanied by feelings of cynicism and detachment from your work. For many female entrepreneurs, the relentless pressure to perform, combined with balancing personal responsibilities, can lead to this debilitating condition.
Why Burnout is On the Rise
The Hustle Culture: The "always-on" mentality glorifies overworking and undervalues rest. Social media is filled with #hustleharder posts that make it seem like 24/7 grind is the only way to succeed.
Blurring Boundaries: While technology is fantastic for keeping us connected and productive, it also blurs the lines between work and downtime. Working from home has become the norm, but it's unusual for us to find ourselves answering emails at midnight and scrolling through social media when we should be catching z’s instead of switch off and recharging.
Perfectionism: One big reason burnout is on the rise is the pressure we put on ourselves. As go-getters, we’re constantly striving for perfection in both our businesses and personal lives. It’s like we’re living in a world where multitasking is a superpower,Many female entrepreneurs feel the need to excel in every area - in our business, as mothers, as partners, and as friends. This self-imposed pressure is a fast track to burnout.
Isolation: Running a business can be lonely, and without a support system, the challenges can feel insurmountable. The lack of peer support can exacerbate feelings of stress and burnout.
Why Burnout is Hard to Fix
Identifying the Problem: Burnout sneaks up on you like a stealthy ninja. You might dismiss early warning signs like fatigue, irritability, or decreased productivity as just part of the job. By the time you realize you're burned out, it's often entrenched. Burnout doesn’t discriminate either. It can hit anyone, from the newbie entrepreneur to the seasoned pro.
Breaking the Cycle: Once you're caught in the cycle of burnout, it affects every aspect of your life and it’s challenging to step back. The demands of your business don't stop because you're exhausted, and taking time off feels impossible. Suddenly, your relationships, health, and even your creativity take a hit. It’s like trying to run a marathon with lead weights strapped to your ankles.
Systemic Issues: Burnout isn't just about working too hard; it's often about deeper systemic issues in your business model or industry. Fixing it might require significant changes to how you work, which can be daunting.
Mental Health Stigma: And let’s not forget about the stigma surrounding burnout. Admitting you’re struggling can feel like admitting failure. We’re often told to just “push through” or “take a vacation,” as if that’s the magical cure-all. But the reality is, burnout is a serious condition that requires proper attention and care. Ignoring it won’t make it disappear. Trust me, I've tried.
When to See a Doctor
Recognizing when burnout requires professional intervention is crucial. Here are some signs it’s time to see a doctor:
Exhaustion That Just Won’t Quit: Feeling tired is one thing, but constant fatigue that no amount of sleep can fix is a big warning sign.
Emotional Rollercoaster: Are you swinging from happy camper to grumpy cat at the drop of a hat? Emotional instability is a common symptom of burnout.
Brain Fog Central: If your once-sharp mind feels more like a foggy swamp, it might be time to hit pause and regroup.
Physical Symptoms: Headaches, stomach troubles, and even chest pain can all be signs that your body is crying out for a break.
Behavioral Changes: Finding yourself increasingly turning to alcohol or substances to cope can also be an indicator that it's time to call in reinforcements.
Don’t be afraid to reach out to a healthcare professional, therapist, or counselor who specializes in burnout. They can help you understand your symptoms and work with you to create a plan that might include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of these so that you can bounce back stronger than ever.
Steps to Mitigate Burnout
Set Boundaries: Establish clear work hours and stick to them. Make time for hobbies and relaxation.
Delegate: You don’t have to do everything yourself. Trust your team with responsibilities.
Self-Care: Prioritize your physical and mental health. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mindfulness practices can make a big difference.
Seek Support: Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, join support groups, or find a mentor. Sharing your struggles can lighten the load.
Professional Help: Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you need it. Therapists and coaches can offer valuable strategies to manage stress and prevent burnout.
Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a courageous step towards reclaiming your health and happiness. And hey, we’re all in this together. Let’s lift each other up and show burnout who’s boss!
Burnout might be on the rise, but so are we. As female entrepreneurs, we’re no strangers to facing challenges head-on. So, let’s tackle burnout with the same fierce determination and resilience that got us to where we are today. Remember, you’re not alone, and help is always just a phone call away. Here’s to thriving, not just surviving!
Ready to burnout-proof yourself and your business? Set up a free call with Shauna Lynn to discuss strategies for taking control of the chaos, get clarity on your goals, and reignite your passion for your business. Click here to get on her calendar.