As business owners and corporate executives, we push ourselves hard to succeed. We set high standards, chase ambitious goals, and often operate at full capacity for long stretches. While this drive can lead to success, it also puts us at a higher risk for burnout. This isn’t just about feeling tired; burnout can impact our mental health, productivity, and even relationships. Let’s explore why this happens and what we can do to prevent it.
High achievers tend to hold themselves to impossible standards. We often think, “If I just work harder, I’ll reach the next level.” This mindset can lead to overcommitting, skipping breaks, and neglecting personal needs. The pressure to constantly deliver can make us feel trapped in a cycle where there’s no room for rest or failure. Even when we’re successful, we don’t pause to celebrate. Instead, we set the next goal, thinking it will bring fulfillment.
Workplace culture can make things harder. Many of us work in places where long hours and always being available are praised. We focus so much on getting things done that we ignore our well-being. This leads to a cycle of pushing ourselves and others too hard, ending in burnout. Over time, this can harm both our mental health and work performance. A healthier approach is to set boundaries and value rest as much as productivity.
Take Rachel, a senior executive, as an example. Rachel thrived on managing her team and meeting aggressive deadlines. She believed that her value came from always being available and solving every problem that came her way. But after months of 12-hour days, missed family dinners, and constant emails late into the night, she started noticing she couldn’t concentrate like before. Small tasks felt overwhelming, and she felt emotionally distant from her team. Despite being proud of her accomplishments, she couldn’t shake the feeling of being burned out and unfulfilled.
Rachel’s story highlights how burnout isn’t just about overwork. It’s also about losing the connection to why we do what we do. When our sense of purpose fades, even high achievement can feel empty.
To prevent burnout, we need to shift our mindset and habits. First, let’s recognise that rest is not a weakness. Taking breaks, setting boundaries, and prioritising our mental health are essential for sustainable success. When we view rest as a tool for performance instead of wasted time, we start making decisions that protect our well-being.
Delegation is another game-changer. Many high achievers fall into the trap of thinking they have to do everything themselves. But empowering our teams to take on tasks not only lightens our load, it also builds trust and strengthens the organisation. Delegation isn’t about giving up control—it’s about creating space to focus on what truly matters.
Let’s also consider how we measure success. Are we chasing goals that align with our values, or are we caught up in what others expect of us? Clarifying our values can help us make decisions that feel right for us, not just impressive to others. This alignment can make our work more fulfilling and reduce the risk of feeling burned out.
Another key is being intentional with our time. Instead of filling every moment with work, we should carve out space for hobbies, family, or quiet reflection. These moments recharge us and give us the energy to tackle challenges with a fresh perspective. When we schedule rest and personal time with the same priority as meetings, we’re less likely to let work take over completely.
Lastly, let’s create a culture that values mental health. Whether we lead a team of two or two hundred, we set the tone. Open conversations about stress, reasonable expectations, and encouraging others to take breaks can build a healthier work environment. When we model these behaviours, our teams feel more comfortable doing the same, which can lead to better performance and morale across the board.
Rachel eventually realised she needed to make changes. She started setting limits on her availability, began delegating tasks, and took up a hobby she’d always wanted to try. Though it wasn’t easy at first, these small steps helped her regain her energy and rediscover her passion for leadership. Over time, she found a balance that allowed her to succeed without sacrificing her health or personal life. Burnout isn’t inevitable, even for those of us who are driven to achieve. By prioritising rest, redefining success, and fostering supportive work environments, we can protect ourselves from the toll of burnout while continuing to thrive. Let’s remind ourselves that our health and well-being are just as important as the goals we strive for. Success means nothing if we don’t have the energy and joy to enjoy it.
Struggling with stress? Your mental health matters. Take the first step toward becoming the best version of yourself—both personally and professionally. Connect with Jonathan Riley at My Practice Counselling and start your journey to clarity, resilience, and growth. Book your session today at https://mypracticecounselling.com.au/ and lead with confidence by prioritizing your well-being.