Episode 129- Why Leaders Burn Out?

In this episode, we explore burnout, not simply as a personal issue, but as a warning signal within a business. We discuss how sustained workplace stress, whether you're a business owner or part of a team, often reflects structural challenges such as unclear priorities, insufficient delegation, or an overloaded operating model.

Drawing on frameworks like the World Health Organisation’s definition of burnout and Herzberg’s Motivation-Hygiene Theory, we look at how decision fatigue, lack of delegation, and unrealistic expectations all contribute to sustained emotional and physical exhaustion. We also talk about the power of peer groups, journaling, and designing your ideal week to regain control, clarity, and resilience.

You can listen to the full episode here 

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Key Topics Discussed:

• Burnout as a sign of strain or flaws in the wider business model, not just an
  individual’s workload
• Decision fatigue and the danger of always being “the one who decides”
• The cost of not delegating effectively (and how to build systems that help)
• Understanding motivation vs. dissatisfaction in the workplace
• Small irritations (pebbles in the shoe) and their long-term impact on morale
• Using automation, KPI ownership, and peer accountability for strategic relief
• The importance of psychological safety and trust within your team
  

Who Is This Episode For:

This episode is for business owners, team leaders, and professionals in high-responsibility roles, particularly those feeling overwhelmed, stretched, or mentally fatigued. It’s also for HR, operations, and people-focused managers looking to support healthier team dynamics, stronger delegation, and a more resilient business model.

Quotes to Remember

“If you can’t say no, you will burn out.”

“Work out what gives you energy, and make that the first thing you do each day.”

“Burnout isn’t just about doing too much, it’s about doing too much of the wrong things, for too long.”

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Design your ‘ideal week’
   Block out non-negotiable time to work on the business, not just in it.
   
   
2. Build a stop list
   Be deliberate about what you say no to and communicate that clearly.
   
   
3. Delegate through systems
   Assign KPIs, automate routines, and create documentation to free up decision-making headspace.
   
   
4. Protect your energy
   Prioritise tasks that give you energy earlier in the day and set tech boundaries to reduce cognitive overload.
   
   
5. Join a peer group
   Regular, structured peer support can help you stay accountable, gain perspective, and avoid isolation.
   
   
6. Journal regularly
   It doesn’t have to be daily, but reflection is a powerful tool for stress relief and decision clarity.
   
   
   

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