Overcoming Overwhelm: My Journey from Burnout to Balance

Jan 20

Have you ever felt so overwhelmed that even small tasks felt impossible?

I sat frozen, staring at the cursor in the Excel cell. The thought, “This is killing me,” crossed my mind. But I pushed it away so I could push through. I had work to do.

What was I doing, though? And why?

I only had the capacity to focus on what was right in front of me. I often found myself staring into space or working on spreadsheets that didn’t require real thought. I focused on the wrong things because my brain could only handle what was most familiar—accelerating the spiral of overwhelm that felt crushing.

My impact at work suffered, and so did my presence at home. I was using all my energy just to show up and put in the hours.

I was simply surviving.

My desire to prove myself, the imposter syndrome I felt, the pressure to create a successful business while learning a new job and building a team, and the isolation that comes from running at breakneck speed created the perfect storm.

Those 70-hour weeks were brutal, and I don’t love to talk about them. But I want you to know—you’re not alone.

I’m not sure how many times my inner voice said, “This is killing me,” before I listened. Maybe 10, maybe 100. But eventually, I did listen. And I realized the voice was right.

The Turning Point

Our minds control our bodies, and mine was stuck in fear, stress, and overwhelm. I was physically suffering from my thoughts and emotions.

I knew I wasn’t the leader I wanted to be, the person I wanted to be, or creating the life I dreamed of.

So I made a decision.

I decided to stop hoping someone else would save me and to take radical responsibility.

The Shift

Here’s how I began to shift:

My desire to prove myself:
I realized this came from ego and insecurity. I needed to check it at the door. Instead, I focused on my “why” and my innate worthiness. I reminded myself that great leaders facilitate and empower—they don’t need to know or do everything. Now, through the VIP Recharge & Rise Experience, I help leaders like you step into their power, make clearer decisions, and lead their teams with confidence.
Imposter syndrome:
This was my fear of failure and success wrapped up in insecurity. I rebuilt habits that helped me take daring action, like guided meditation and pump-up playlists. I re-learned that stepping into my power meant trusting myself - even when the fear was loud - and showing up with my unique gifts as the leader I was meant to be.
The pressure to do it all:
Much of this pressure was internal. I reframed it as a privilege, and to respond well, I prioritized self-care. I set boundaries, took breaks, ate healthier, and exercised regularly. I created a schedule that supported me showing up fully for my job and for life. I remembered my time and energy are precious—and they are mine to create.
The isolation I felt:
I owned my part in creating connection and communication. I released unmet expectations of others and committed to making changes in my life and relationships, even when they were difficult. On your VIP Day, I’ll help you through the changes you need to make. We’ll reset your nervous system, align your energy, and map out strategies tailored to your goals.