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“Bottom line is I am Exhausted!” This statement came from a leader I deeply admire during our discussion at the end of a two-day business planning retreat.
I wasn’t surprised when they told me. If anything I was frustrated. Why does this keep happening? Why do well intended high-performers continue to find themselves on the brink of burnout?
In this issue, we want to have an honest conversation about exhaustion, discussing the early warning signs of burnout, and share our thoughts on how discipline is the antidote to burnout.
Warning Signs
We're a group that prides itself on drive, on pushing boundaries, on the relentless pursuit of more. But when does "more" become too much?
The truth is, exhaustion often signals a breakdown in our systems. It's a symptom of inefficiency, of trying to force results through sheer willpower.
We celebrate the victories won this way, but it's a dangerous game.
Going into overdrive may produce short-term wins, but it's unsustainable and a sure path to burnout.
Exhaustion is never the first symptom, it's something we progress towards. There are several more subtle symptoms that arise well before exhaustion sets in;
Lacking a clear vision for your life
Struggling to find meaning in contributions
Devoting a lot of time and attention to trying to fit in
Decision-making process is not clear
Energy is dispersed in too many directions
Work often turns into frenetic deadline induced hyperactivity
Disengaged, bored and/or lacking enthusiasm
Easily annoyed or frustrated by the process
Compromising routines to complete more to-dos
Redefine Your Relationship with Effort
It's time to redefine our relationship with effort. To do so, we need to distinguish between hard work and discipline.
Hard work is a reaction. It demands we do more, in response to something external, often in the same ways we've always done things.
Discipline is proactive and multi-faceted. It's derived from a source that comes from deep within and evolves with our priorities.
Let's take a look varying ways we can deploy discipline to transform our approach to high-performance:
Think Differently: Can you find a better strategy? A more efficient process? Challenge the status quo.
Channeled Effort: Yes, sometimes intensity is necessary. But apply it strategically, not indiscriminately.
Opportunistic: Be adaptable. Position yourself to seize opportunities that arise from change.
Consistency: Don't underestimate the power of doing average things over the long haul. It's the foundation for mastery.
Focus: Say no to distractions ruthlessly. Be present and protect your energy for what truly matters.
Adopting this approach to high-performance means making a conscious shift. It's about recognizing that there are different levers we can pull to achieve our goals.
Experiment. Find what works for you.
Exhaustion doesn't have to be the badge of honor we wear in our relentless pursuit of success.
By embracing a disciplined approach, we can achieve more with less friction, create a sustainable pace, and ultimately, find more joy in the journey.