I was speaking with a wonderful colleague who is a brilliant researcher, a gifted clinician, a talented executive, a mother of two delightful daughters and an amazing human being. She shared that she was feeling physically and emotionally drained. She feels like nearly every facet of her life is in constant flux. She is concerned that this constant change will continue for a long time. She knows she needs to find a way to move forward.
Lately, it feels like we’re all running a race with no finish line. Change is constant. Uncertainty is everywhere. And if you’re feeling exhausted from trying to keep up—know that you are not alone. And I’m in there with you!
As I shared with my colleague, one thing I’ve learned is you don’t have to burn yourself out to prove you’re strong.
Here are some of the perspectives I shared with my colleague that seemed to resonate with her:
- Focus on what you can control – There will always be things outside your power, but your mindset, your boundaries, and how you spend your energy are yours to protect. This may be things in your personal life; projects that are moving forward and not likely to be buffeted by the change we are experiencing.
- Rest without guilt – You are not a machine. You don’t have to “earn” rest by finishing everything on your list (because let’s be real, the list never ends). Rest because you deserve it.
- Stay flexible, but stay you – Growth is great, but don’t say yes to everything at the cost of your well-being. You can evolve and honor your limits at the same time.
- Lean on your people – You don’t have to do this alone. Find your circle, share the load, and remind each other that it’s okay to slow down. These can be professional colleagues, friends, family. You will benefit and you will also help others as they experience this constant change.
The world isn’t slowing down—but that doesn’t mean you have to run yourself into the ground. Pace yourself. Protect your energy. And remember resilience isn’t about doing more, it’s about doing what matters.
I would love to speak with you about how you can protect your energy in uncertain times?