Creative Burnout: Balancing Creativity, Business, and Wellbeing

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In this episode, Penny and Verity dive into the often-overlooked reality of creative burnout in the design industry. They share personal experiences of hitting the wall, from the invisible weight of endless admin to the mental toll of constant creative demands. This is an honest, heartfelt conversation about protecting your mental health, finding ways to recharge, and leading with kindness in a fast-paced, high-expectation industry.

They explore why taking breaks is not a luxury but a necessity, the value of being transparent with clients when energy runs low, and how small acts of kindness can lift team morale. The discussion also covers the vital role of mediation in smoothing out design project challenges, the unique energy of co-working spaces, and the leadership qualities that help teams thrive.

A powerful thread throughout is the reminder—especially for women in business—to know their worth and to stop apologising for sending an invoice.

🧵 In this episode:

• What creative burnout feels like—and why it’s so common in the design industry
  
  
  
• How admin tasks can drain creativity and energy
  
  
  
• The importance of taking intentional mental health breaks
  
  
  
• Why honesty with clients about fatigue builds trust
  
  
  
• The role of kindness in creating a positive workplace culture
  
  
  
• Mediation as an essential part of successful design projects
  
  
  
• How co-working spaces attract and inspire like-minded people
  
  
  
• Leading by example: the mark of strong leadership
  
  
  
• Recognising women’s worth in business and removing guilt from invoicing
  
  
  

💬 Reflections:

• “The admin that burns us out.”
  
  
  
• “Mediation’s massive in our job.”
  
  
  
• “Know your worth.”
  
  
  
• “Taking a break is sometimes the most productive thing you can do.”
  
  
  
• “Kindness in the workplace is never wasted.”
  
  
  

💌 Want to learn more?
 Follow Between the Walls:
Website: www.betweenthewalls.co.nz
Instagram: @betweentheII_IIs

Between the Walls is hosted by Janey, shining a light on the art and heart of building and renovating.

🎧 Subscribe wherever you listen and share this episode with anyone navigating the demands of creativity, business, and life.