Sustaining high performance in any field is essential for personal and professional growth, yet the looming threat of burnout can easily derail even the most ambitious plans. At Practice Growth HQ, we recently had a conversation with Dr Jo Braid, an expert in neuro-rehabilitation and a pro in guiding healthcare professionals to recover from burnout. Drawing from her personal experiences and expertise, Jo provided actionable insights to help avoid burnout and maintain peak performance over the long haul.
Recognising Burnout
Burnout can sneak up without warning, often manifesting as chronic fatigue, headaches, and even social withdrawal. Understanding the physical, emotional, and mental signs is crucial. Fatigue, irritability, and brain fog are clear indicators that your body is sending out distress signals. Stress hormones like cortisol become persistently elevated, leading to further complications if not addressed. Being self-aware and recognising these symptoms early can be a lifesaver.
Four Pillars to Prevent Burnout
Jo outlined a simple yet effective model consisting of four key elements: sleep, movement, mindset, and support. Each pillar plays a significant role in maintaining not just our physical well-being, but also our mental resilience.
1. Sleep:
A good night’s sleep is the foundation of health. Aim for a minimum of seven to eight hours. Sleep optimises brain function, enhances mood, and keeps stress levels in check. No amount of coffee can replace the restorative power of quality sleep.
2. Movement:
Moving your body helps to lower cortisol levels. Whether it’s a brisk walk, yoga session, or a quick dance, every bit counts. Regular movement combats stress and enhances mental clarity.
3. Mindset:
Cultivating a positive and realistic mindset is essential. Managing expectations, setting boundaries, and practising self-compassion can reshape our internal dialogue to be more supportive. The concept of “imperfect consistency” reminds us that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
4. Support:
Surrounding yourself with a robust support system can make all the difference. Whether it’s friends, family, or professionals like coaches, having people to lean on can provide encouragement and advice when needed. Remember, even the most successful individuals have a team behind them.
Why Coaching Matters
Dr Braid highlights the pivotal role of coaching in her own journey. Coaches offer an external perspective, helping to navigate both personal and professional challenges. Whether it’s business, lifestyle, or even mental health coaching, these mentors can expedite your growth by sharing their expertise and offering tailored guidance.
Final Thoughts
Burnout is not an insurmountable obstacle. By proactively implementing these strategies, you can safeguard your mental health and sustain high performance. The key is to take action before burnout takes hold, and continuously check in with yourself to ensure you’re on the right path.
Take a moment now to reflect on which pillar you need to strengthen in your own life. Remember, continuous personal improvement is a journey. Make it a pleasant one.
For more insights and strategies for professional growth, listen to the Practice Growth HQ podcast on
Spotify https://spoti.fi/42rpDPf and Apple Podcasts https://apple.co/3EoZbKI.