The Unadvertised Version of Leadership: Burn Out
Leadership in 180 Seconds: Lessons I have learnt as a leader that few talk about
Leadership brings greater risk of burnout—yet few talk about it. Discover three powerful habits that help leaders avoid emotional exhaustion, maintain balance, and lead with clarity. Because protecting your wellbeing isn’t selfish—it’s essential if you want to sustain your influence and impact.
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When you first stepped into leadership, did anyone tell you that you were more likely to burn out? Probably not.
Yet in Australia, statistics suggest that the moment you step into leadership, your risk of burnout jumps by around 10%. Increased workload, responsibility, and emotional stress all add up.
Early in my leadership career, I felt like I burned out every six weeks. Everything would build to an overwhelming tipping point, and I’d end up an emotional mess, just trying to stay sane.
Thankfully, I haven’t reached that point in years. Why? Because I learned some powerful lessons. Here are three that have helped me avoid burnout:
1. Balance is key
Ironically, in college I was taught to protect my time so fiercely that I’d “clock off” at 5 pm no matter what. The result? I wasn’t finishing anything and the stress piled up. So, I swung the other way—working ridiculous hours. I got more done but my social life, health, and mental wellbeing suffered.
Both extremes are unhealthy. As leaders, we must regularly step back and take stock: How many projects do I have going? How’s my family? Have I connected with friends? Do I need a short burst of extra work now to relieve pressure later? Balance sometimes means longer hours, sometimes fewer. The skill is knowing which you need.2. Build strong support
Leadership puts us in difficult situations—challenging conversations, tough decisions, emotionally draining work. The best antidote I’ve found is speaking with people outside my situation who understand leadership. Mentors and peers offer perspective, advice, and encouragement. These conversations are a form of emotional refuelling that helps me keep going.
3. Revisit your vision
If I focus only on my workload and challenges, I lose heart quickly. The piles of tasks don’t inspire me—but my “why” does. Returning to my vision gives me fresh courage and energy.
If you’re in the middle of burnout, please seek professional help. You are valued, and the world needs you as a leader.
And if you’re leading well right now, that’s great—keep going. Burnout can happen to anyone, but with balance, strong support, and a clear vision, you can drastically reduce the risk.