How I got my mojo back after CEO burnout
Growing up in the suburbs of Chicago, I always wanted to be an entrepreneur. Monthly visits to the library to read issues of Kiplinger, Entrepreneur, Inc., Black Enterprise, and Forbes were my treat. I dreamed of seeing myself on the cover of the annual Inc. 30 under 30. The idea of controlling my destiny, where my input equaled my output, and working hard to become a self-made millionaire fascinated me.
After graduating from a Big 10 school, I started an e-commerce company and embarked on my entrepreneurial journey. It was a rollercoaster ride filled with highs and lows, but more highs than lows. By the time I was 35, I had fulfilled my dream of becoming a self-made millionaire. It felt great, but honestly, I was also exhausted — not physically but mentally.
Reaching a point of CEO burnout, I found myself in a state of mental and emotional exhaustion. The weight of responsibilities, constant decision-making, and never-ending pressure had taken their toll. When I should have been enjoying the fruits of my hard work, I was filled with anxiety and despair. Acknowledging burnout was the first step. I realized I needed a change, not only for my well-being but also for the health and future of the company I had poured my heart and soul into.
Reclaiming My Mojo
To reclaim my lost mojo, I took a multifaceted approach:
Remembering Who I Was Before the CEO Title
Besides being a CEO and small business owner, I was a multifaceted woman with much to offer. I had gotten so wrapped up in being “boss lady” and “Ms. Entrepreneur” that it no longer held the same zing it used to. Embracing self-care became a priority. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep became non-negotiable elements of my routine.
Reconnecting with Purpose
I revisited the initial passion that drove me to become a CEO. Reconnecting with my sense of purpose and the company’s mission reignited my motivation. In doing so, I realized that the company’s purpose and mission no longer served me.
Setting Realistic Goals
I redefined my goals and set more realistic expectations. This helped alleviate self-imposed pressure and fostered a healthier approach to decision-making.
Embracing Flexibility
I became more open to changes in the way I approached my work. I adapted to new methods, updated technology, and strategies to reduce stress and enhance productivity.
Getting Real with Myself
After much thoughtful reflection, attending workshops, reading, and dialogue with other entrepreneurs, I realized I was grateful for my CEO journey but was truly over it. It had served its purpose and done what it was supposed to do. What lay ahead for me, I didn’t know, but I knew I had reached the end and no longer wanted the “boss lady” or “Ms. Entrepreneur” role and title. I was ready for the next stage, even if it was undefined.
The Broader Context
My experience is not unique. According to a study by the National Bureau of Economic Research, 72% of entrepreneurs are directly or indirectly affected by mental health issues compared to just 48% of non-entrepreneurs. Burnout is particularly prevalent among CEOs, with a 2018 Harvard Business Review report indicating that nearly 50% of CEOs experience feelings of loneliness and isolation, which can lead to significant mental health challenges.
Female entrepreneurs, in particular, face unique challenges. The 2020 Women in the Workplace study by McKinsey & Company found that women in senior leadership are significantly more likely than men to feel burned out and under pressure to work more. Despite these challenges, women continue to make remarkable strides in the business world. According to American Express’s 2019 State of Women-Owned Businesses Report, the number of women-owned businesses increased by 21% from 2014 to 2019, compared to just 9% for all businesses.
Moving Forward
As I step away from the “boss lady” title, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and curiosity about what comes next. The entrepreneurial spirit is still within me, but I am now focused on finding a path that aligns with my well-being and personal fulfillment. The journey ahead is undefined, but I am ready to embrace it with open arms.
