It's a story that's all too familiar in today's fast-paced world: the relentless pursuit of productivity, the constant pressure to perform, and the inevitable burnout that follows. For me, that narrative hit close to home. I found myself teetering on the edge of exhaustion, my energy depleted, and my motivation waning. It was clear: I needed a break.
So it turns out I was burned out—maybe still am—but I made the decision to take three weeks off. It wasn't an easy choice. There were deadlines looming and projects waiting to be completed, but I knew that if I didn't prioritize my well-being, everything else would suffer. And so, with a mixture of trepidation and relief, I stepped away from my work and into a much-needed hiatus.
Thanks to my amazing team, first of all, nothing broke. It was a testament to their dedication and skill that the operation continued to run smoothly in my absence. If anything, things seemed to thrive after my departure. There were fewer fires to put out and fewer crises to manage. Perhaps they were even better off without me. You'd have to ask them; they were probably stoked.
Of course, it wasn't all smooth sailing. There were moments when I couldn't resist the urge to check in to see how things were going. I found myself meddling over Slack, offering unsolicited advice, and second-guessing decisions. It was a habit I struggled to break, a symptom of my deep-seated need to control. But even amidst these lapses, I couldn't deny the impact that stepping back had on my well-being.
In those three weeks, I experienced a transformation. I went from feeling overwhelmed and exhausted to feeling refreshed and revitalized. It wasn't just a physical reprieve; it was a mental reset. Tasks that once seemed insurmountable suddenly became manageable. Responsibilities that once weighed me down now feel lighter and more manageable. I felt like I could breathe again.
And it wasn't just me. My team noticed a difference too. They saw a leader who was more present, more engaged, and more attuned to their needs. They saw a colleague who was happier, more fulfilled, and more capable of leading them forward. It was a reminder that taking care of ourselves isn't just important for our own sake; it's important for the sake of those around us.
So if you're reading this right now and you're feeling overwhelmed, exhausted, or burned out, take it from me: take some time off. It may seem counterintuitive, especially in a culture that glorifies hustle and grind, but trust me when I say that it's worth it. Your work will still be there when you return, but you'll be better equipped to tackle it. You'll be sharper, more focused, and more creative. And, most importantly, you'll be happier.
Remember, self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. So do yourself a favor and prioritize your well-being. Take that vacation you've been putting off. Unplug from work and reconnect with yourself. Your future self will thank you for it.
