Feeling the BURN?

TheUPside Podcast

Today, we're diving into a topic I’ve experienced multiple times in my life: BURNOUT.
1. Am I Focusing on Intensity Over Consistency?
High achievers often go all in on a goal, pushing with maximum intensity. While this approach can yield short-term results, it often leads to burnout. Intensity can be exhausting and unsustainable, whereas consistency is what builds momentum. Success is rarely about big leaps; it’s about small, incremental steps repeated over time.
Momentum—achieved through consistency—is where the magic happens. When you’re in momentum, things flow more easily, and success becomes energizing. However, when we lose momentum by neglecting consistency, it’s hard to restart.
For example, if you’re pursuing health and fitness, instead of extreme dieting or over-exercising for a month, focus on gradual, sustainable changes. Over time, these consistent efforts will create lasting results.
2. Am I Choosing Comfort Over Growth?
Sometimes, what we label as burnout is actually boredom. If you’ve been doing the same thing for too long without challenging yourself, you might feel stuck. Growth requires stepping out of your comfort zone, learning something new, and embracing challenges.
Consider shaking things up:
- Learn a new skill.
- Approach tasks differently.
- Take on a project that pushes your boundaries.
Choosing growth over comfort might be the exact remedy you need.
3. Am I Caught in the Drama Drain or Investing in People?
For leaders, one of the quickest paths to burnout is getting entangled in unnecessary drama or spending time with people who drain your energy. Whether it’s challenging clients or unproductive team members, this constant drain can feel overwhelming.
Instead, focus on:
- Investing your time in people who value your efforts and want to grow with you.
- Identifying and serving your ideal clients—those who appreciate your work and align with your vision.
- Shifting your focus to the impact you’re making, which can reignite your passion and energy.
4. Am I Stuck in the Weeds or Building the Vision?
Vision brings energy. It’s what fuels you and your organization. When you lose sight of the bigger picture and get bogged down in day-to-day minutiae, burnout can creep in.
Apply the Pareto Principle (80/20 rule):
- Focus on the 20% of activities that generate 80% of results.
- Eliminate or delegate the remaining tasks that don’t significantly contribute to your goals.
Burnout often stems from feeling unproductive. By focusing on high-impact activities, you’ll see results and regain motivation.
5. Am I Just Trying Harder or Being Strategic?
When faced with burnout, it’s tempting to put your head down and work even harder. Instead, pause. Take a deep breath and evaluate your approach. Shifting to a strategic mindset can create renewed energy and clarity.
Here’s how:
- Take time to reflect. Sit with a blank journal or notepad and brainstorm solutions creatively.
- Ask yourself, Is this the best way to achieve my goal?
- Focus on what’s working and do more of it.
Final Thoughts
Burnout doesn’t mean you’re failing—it’s a sign you need to pivot. Use these five questions to identify the root causes and regain your energy:
1. Focus on consistency over intensity.
2. Pursue growth instead of comfort.
3. Invest in people and meaningful impact.
4. Reconnect with your vision.
5. Think strategically rather than simply trying harder.