What do you do if your executive coaching career is causing burnout?

1 Identify the causes

Identifying the sources of stress in your work is the first step to dealing with burnout. Common factors for executive coaches that can contribute to burnout include having a high workload and unrealistic expectations, a lack of autonomy and control over your schedule, a lack of recognition and feedback, a lack of support and resources, a lack of alignment with your values and goals, and a lack of balance between work and personal life. As you reflect on your current situation, ask yourself what is draining your energy and motivation. Consider what is not working for you and what needs to be changed with honesty and specificity.

2 Set boundaries and prioritize

The next step to deal with burnout is to set boundaries and prioritize your tasks and activities. To protect your time, energy, and well-being, you should say no to what is not essential or aligned with your purpose. Additionally, it's important to prioritize what is important and urgent, and delegate or outsource what you can. As an executive coach, you should define your scope and limits and communicate them clearly to clients and stakeholders. Establish a regular and realistic schedule and track your workload and productivity to adjust accordingly. Learn to decline requests or opportunities that are not aligned with your goals or values, and seek help or support when necessary from colleagues, mentors, or professionals.

4 Review and renew

The fourth step to deal with burnout is to review and renew your vision and goals as an executive coach. You need to reconnect with your purpose and passion, evaluating your progress and achievements. Ask yourself questions such as: what is your mission as an executive coach? What are your short-term and long-term goals, strengths, and areas of improvement? What feedback and results are you getting from your clients and stakeholders? What challenges and opportunities are you facing or anticipating? And what changes or improvements do you want to make or see in your work? Answering these questions can help you align your actions and outcomes, celebrate successes, and learn from mistakes.

5 Seek professional development

Seeking professional development and growth as an executive coach is the fifth step to deal with burnout. To stay updated on the latest trends and best practices in your field, you should enroll in courses, workshops, or certifications that can enhance your competencies and credentials. Additionally, reading books, articles, blogs, or podcasts can enrich your insights and perspectives. Attending events, conferences, or webinars can expose you to new ideas and trends in executive coaching. You should also hire a coach, mentor, or supervisor to provide feedback, advice, and support. Lastly, joining associations, groups, or forums can connect you with other executive coaches and share best practices and experiences.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?