I’ve always been a career-driven person, passionate about reaching goals and pushing myself to be the best I can be. But recently, I was confronted with a personal wake-up call that has reshaped my perspective. Recently, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. I have never experienced the typical symptoms nor had thyroid issues. My hormone levels tested normal, so the news was a shock. As I navigate this journey, I want to share some reflections and strategies I’ve discovered to help balance well-being with career ambitions—a balance we can easily lose sight of as busy professionals. How do we go from burnout to balance and protect your wellbeing in a busy career?
Why Listening to Our Bodies is So Important
Amid work projects, family obligations, and day-to-day life, paying attention to our health can sometimes take a backseat. Like many of you, I was pushing forward, head down, and focused on goals and deadlines. It wasn’t until routine health checks flagged something that I learned how important it is to take a step back and tune in to what my body was trying to tell me. I urge everyone to prioritize regular health check-ups and listen when your body is asking you to slow down, no matter how busy life may seem.
Recognizing Burnout During Your Career Hustle
This diagnosis also made me recognize that I had been close to burnout for a while. Mid-career professionals like us juggle so many responsibilities that it can be hard to admit when we’re overextended. Burnout doesn’t happen overnight, and it can be difficult to spot when you’re caught up in the day-to-day. In a previous Jess Get Hired episode, (Episode 88 - Understanding Burnout), I spoke about the signs and symptoms of burnout, and now, I’m learning firsthand how vital it is to recognize these signs early on.
“Success isn’t about constant hustle but about finding harmony between ambition and self-care.”
My 3 Steps for Moving from Burnout to Balance
Over the past few weeks, I have been reflecting on how to climb out of the funk. I want to share three practical strategies that have helped me prioritize my health while still pursuing career success.
1. Redefine Success
In our culture, we often define success by how much we work and how busy we are. I’ve learned that success isn’t just about hard work; it’s about sustainability. Now, I’m reframing my idea of success to include health and balance. Success is no longer about grinding endlessly but about achieving meaningful goals without sacrificing well-being. We have to quit thinking that someone else's success is what our path should be. That gets us in a phase where we are chasing someone else's dreams, not our own.
2. Set Non-Negotiable Boundaries
Setting boundaries has become my priority, and it’s helped tremendously. I now make sure I have non-negotiable time with my family without interruptions from work. Even my new puppy, Luna, has been a grounding reminder to enjoy the present moment. Non-negotiable boundaries that mean you are strict with yourself make a huge difference. Even small boundaries can make a big difference. For instance, if you need a quiet morning to set your day right, let that be your time—no interruptions. It’s all about protecting your time and energy so you can have something to give. Creating boundaries that protect my energy has been an important step in my journey from burnout to balance, and it’s something I encourage others to try, too.
3. Build Resilience Through Routine
I’ve found comfort in small daily routines—whether it’s savoring my energy drink, podcasting, working out, or playing with the new puppy. These routines have become anchors, helping me build resilience as I adjust to new health challenges. Routines give us stability, especially in chaotic times, and they’re one of the simplest ways to ground ourselves even when life is anything but simple. Routines don't have to be elaborate or time-consuming, but they have to be yours! Find one small thing you can look forward to each day that has nothing to do with work!
Health and Balance: My New Definition of Success
This journey has taught me a powerful lesson: our health is our most valuable asset. As high-achieving professionals, we owe it to ourselves to find a balance between work and well-being. Career growth and success are important, but not at the expense of health. If you’re in a place where you feel burnout creeping in, remember that balance and well-being are essential parts of the journey. Slow down, take stock, and redefine what success means to you.
Simple Activities for Daily Balance
Creating balance doesn’t require overhauling your whole routine; sometimes, it’s the smallest shifts that have the most significant impact. Here are a few activities and quick tips that I’ve found useful in restoring a sense of calm and focus, even on the busiest days.
1. Try a Mini Mindfulness Moment: Start your day with just five minutes of mindfulness. Whether it’s a quick breathing exercise, listening to calming music, or simply enjoying a coffee without distractions, these moments set a grounding tone for the day.
2. Move and Stretch Regularly: Physical activity, even in short bursts, can work wonders for mental clarity and physical health. Aim to stand, stretch, or take a brief walk every hour to release tension, boost circulation, and give your mind a refreshing break.
3. Engage in a Creative Hobby: Spending time on creative hobbies—like journaling, drawing, or even cooking a new recipe—helps break the mental loop of work stress and invites a sense of playfulness back into your day.
4. Embrace Digital Boundaries: Designate “no-screen” times, especially before bed or during meals. Disconnecting, even for 15-30 minutes, can help reduce mental fatigue and improve your focus when you return to work.
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes… including you.” – Anne Lamott
These quick, balanced activities are easy to incorporate and can provide a much-needed breather, reminding us that balance is built on small, sustainable actions. Try one or two to see what resonates, and remember, achieving balance is all about consistency over intensity!
Finding balance, especially as ambitious professionals, is often easier said than done. But as I’ve learned, taking care of our health and well-being isn’t just a choice; it’s a responsibility. My journey through this health scare has reminded me, and I hope it reminds you, to slow down and prioritize what truly matters. Achieving balance isn’t about stepping away from your goals, but rather recharging so you can approach them with renewed energy, focus, and resilience. Let’s remember that success isn’t about constant hustle but about finding harmony between ambition and self-care.
Thank you for joining me on this journey—and for taking the steps to protect your own well-being and career.
About the Author
Jessica Fiesta George is a Talent Advisor/Consultant for private-equity backed companies, and host of the podcast Jess Get Hired. With 20 years of experience in the recruitment industry, Jessica shares expert insights on career growth, workplace trends, and mental health in the workplace. Known for her practical advice and engaging storytelling, she connects with professionals at all career stages to inspire meaningful change. Follow her journey and tips on LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok at @jessgethired or visit her website at www.jessgethired.com.
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