Ep 6 Breaking the Burnout Cycle

In this episode, we dive deep into the burnout epidemic affecting today's leaders and what you can do to break free from this destructive cycle.

The Burnout Crisis Among Leaders

The statistics are alarming—76% of employees experience burnout, with mid-level leaders being especially vulnerable as they juggle multiple responsibilities. When a leader burns out, it creates a ripple effect, impacting team motivation, collaboration, and trust.

The True Cost of Burnout:

• Health impacts: persistent exhaustion and physical symptoms

• Emotional toll: negativity, cynicism, and loss of hope

• Organizational cost: reduced productivity and high turnover ($125-$190 billion in healthcare costs alone)

My Personal Burnout Journey

I share how my passion for my work gradually transformed into overwhelm as I took on too many roles, until I discovered the game-changing Pareto Principle—the idea that 20% of our activities generate 80% of our results.

Transformational Strategies to Beat Burnout:

• Identify what brings you real joy at work and prioritize these activities

• Use the TIE Tracker to conduct an activity audit (free download at clairelaughlin.com)

• Create a transparent workplan with specific deliverables

• Learn to ask "Can it wait?" before sacrificing personal time

• Schedule both focused work time and rejuvenation breaks

Remember, no one else can set boundaries for you. Taking ownership of your wellbeing is the first step toward breaking the burnout cycle and reclaiming your energy and joy at work.

Links Mentioned:

TIE (Time Impact Energy) Tracker Tool available on my Resource Page

Beat the Burnout Free Webinar - March 19th and 21st

THIS Leader Podcast Episode #4: Adding Strategic Value in Uncertain Times

Simplify, Amplify and Thrive! - My upcoming Masterclass starting March 31

Research Sources:

Goh, J., Pfeffer, J., & Zenios, S. (2015). "National Health Costs Could Decrease If Managers Reduce Work Stress." Harvard Business School Working Knowledge. Retrieved from https://www.library.hbs.edu/working-knowledge/national-health-costs-could-decrease-if-managers-reduce-work-stress

Pavilion. (2022). "The Real Cost of Burnout." Pavilion Blog. Retrieved from https://www.joinpavilion.com/blog/the-real-cost-of-burnout

WebMD Editorial Team. (2023). "Burnout Symptoms and Signs." WebMD. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/burnout-symptoms-signs

Gallup. (2020). Employee Burnout: Causes and Cures. Gallup Workplace Report.