Why so many women leaders burn out

There was a time when I believed that being busy meant being successful.

I said yes to almost everything. I worked long hours, supported family and friends, volunteered my time, and carried the weight of everyone else's expectations. As an accountant and trainer, I prided myself on being dependable. If someone needed help, I would find a way.

But eventually, my body said what my mouth never would: "Enough."

When burnout became my wake-up call

A year ago, I experienced burnout.

I was exhausted physically, mentally and emotionally. My energy had disappeared, my enthusiasm had faded, and even simple tasks felt overwhelming. Looking back, I realised I had spent so much time looking after everyone else that I had neglected myself.

Burnout didn't happen overnight. It crept in through skipped breaks, late nights, constant pressure and the belief that resting somehow meant failing.

That experience changed my life.

Instead of asking, "How much more can I do?" I started asking, "How can I live with more joy, balance and purpose?"

Why so many women leaders burn out

Many women in leadership roles wear multiple hats.

They are business owners, managers, mothers, carers, mentors, volunteers and friends. They organise everyone else's lives while quietly placing their own wellbeing at the bottom of the list.

Common warning signs include:

• Feeling tired even after sleeping.

• Struggling to concentrate.

• Becoming irritable or emotional.

• Losing enjoyment in work you once loved.

• Feeling guilty whenever you take time for yourself.

• Constantly saying, "I'll rest when things calm down."

The truth is that things rarely calm down unless we make intentional changes.

The lessons burnout taught me

1. Your worth is not measured by your workload.

Being constantly busy doesn't make you more valuable. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest.

2. Boundaries are healthy.

Learning to say "no" protected my energy and allowed me to say a wholehearted "yes" to the things that truly mattered.

3. Joy deserves a place on your calendar.

Don't postpone happiness until retirement or your next holiday. Schedule moments of joy today.

4. Looking after yourself helps everyone else.

When you're healthy, energised and clear-minded, you make better decisions and have more to give.

Five practical ways to prevent burnout

1. Start the day with gratitude

Before reaching for your phone, take a moment to acknowledge three things you're thankful for. It helps set a positive tone for the day.

2. Build micro-breaks into your schedule

Even five minutes to stretch, breathe deeply or step outside can reset your mind.

3. Protect your energy

Not every request deserves a "yes." Give yourself permission to decline commitments that drain you.

4. Move your body

Whether it's a walk, dancing in your kitchen or a laughter session, movement reduces stress and boosts mood.

5. Create your own "Happiness Island"

One of the ideas I now share in my wellbeing sessions is imagining a place where you feel calm, joyful and free. It reminds us that even during stressful seasons, we can intentionally create moments of peace and positivity.

My message to women leaders

You don't have to earn the right to rest.

You don't have to prove your value by exhausting yourself.

You don't have to carry every burden alone.

Leadership is not about doing everything. It's about having the wisdom to know when to pause, recharge and lead from a place of strength rather than depletion.

Today, I still work hard, but I also laugh more, dance more, spend time with people I love and make wellbeing a priority. I've discovered that success feels much sweeter when you have the energy to enjoy it.

If you're reading this and feeling overwhelmed, take one small step today. Go for a walk. Drink some water. Take a deep breath. Phone a friend. Listen to music that lifts your spirit.

And most importantly, remember this:

You deserve joy, confidence and clarity—not just after the work is done, but while you're living your life.

“Have you ever experienced burnout, and what helped you find your way back to joy?”