The Burnout Recovery Framework
Burnout isn't laziness or weakness—it's a signal that something in the system is broken. Here's how to address it methodically.
Stage 1: Stabilize
Before making any decisions, reduce your load. Not forever, but for now.- Identify one commitment you can drop or delegate this week
- Protect one evening per week as non-negotiable personal time
- Set one hard boundary (no emails after 8pm, no weekend work)
Stage 2: Investigate
Once stable, examine the root causes:- Is it volume (too much work)?
- Is it intensity (constant high-stakes)?
- Is it control (being directed, not directing)?
- Is it recognition (invisible effort)?
Stage 3: Negotiate or Navigate
If the root cause is fixable within your organization, have the conversation. If it requires a fundamental change in how the company operates, accept that and plan accordingly.
Stage 4: Rebuild or Redirect
Recovery isn't returning to the old normal. It's building a new baseline that's sustainable. This might mean the same role with new boundaries, or an entirely new chapter.
Ready for Personalized Guidance?
Every situation is different. If you want help thinking through yours—with someone who's seen hundreds of similar cases—consider working with a coach.
What you get:- A structured conversation to clarify your situation
- Frameworks tailored to your specific circumstances
- Scripts you can actually use
- A clear action plan