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Burnout Isn’t Just a Feeling - It’s a Brain-State.
- Magdalena Zbyszynska
- Jun 3
- 4 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
In a recent conversation on my Conversations That Matter series, I spoke with a neuroscientist and coach in neurotech, Dr. Milena Korostenskaja, who reminds us hard truth: Brain needs rest!
👉 Burnout directly disrupts the quality of your sleep - and when your brain doesn’t get proper rest, the consequences ripple into your leadership:
Burnout Isn’t Just a Feeling - It’s a Brain-State.
In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, many leaders find themselves grappling with overwhelming stress and exhaustion, leading to chronic burnout. This state of mental, physical, and emotional exhaustion not only affects personal well-being but also significantly impacts professional effectiveness. Sleep is a critical component of cognitive function, and when it is compromised, the ramifications can be profound and far-reaching.
Memory loss
One of the most immediate effects of insufficient sleep due to burnout is memory impairment. The brain relies on deep sleep to consolidate memories and process information. When sleep is disrupted, leaders may struggle to recall important details, which can hinder their ability to perform effectively in meetings, strategize, or remember key aspects of projects. This forgetfulness can lead to missed opportunities and decreased productivity.
Poor planning and problem-solving
Effective leadership requires sharp planning skills and the ability to solve complex problems. However, when burnout takes hold, cognitive functions such as critical thinking and strategic planning suffer. Leaders may find it challenging to anticipate potential challenges or devise innovative solutions, resulting in a reactive rather than proactive leadership style. This can ultimately affect team morale and project outcomes.
Emotional instability
Burnout often leads to heightened emotional responses, which can manifest as irritability, frustration, or mood swings. Leaders who are emotionally unstable may struggle to maintain a positive work environment, creating tension among team members. This instability can erode trust and respect, making it difficult for leaders to inspire and motivate their teams effectively. Emotional intelligence, a vital leadership trait, may diminish under the strain of burnout.
Faulty decision-making
The ability to make sound decisions is crucial for any leader. However, when sleep is compromised, judgment can become clouded, leading to poor decision-making. Leaders may find themselves making impulsive choices or overlooking critical information, which can have significant repercussions for their teams and the organization as a whole. This lapse in judgment can create a cycle of stress and anxiety, further exacerbating burnout.
Even early signs of depression
Chronic burnout can also lead to the emergence of mental health issues, including symptoms of depression. Feelings of hopelessness, persistent fatigue, and a lack of motivation can become prevalent, making it increasingly challenging for leaders to engage with their work and their teams. This not only affects the leader's well-being but can also have a detrimental impact on team dynamics and overall organizational health.
The brain needs deep, restorative rest to clear out waste, store information, and support high-level execution. And yet, many leaders pride themselves on pushing through exhaustion - until the cost becomes too high.
Statistics are Alarming for Attention
According to a recent study conducted by Gallup, a staggering 76% of employees report experiencing burnout on the job at least sometimes. This statistic highlights a significant concern in the modern workplace, where the pressures of meeting deadlines, managing a heavy workload, and navigating workplace dynamics can take a toll on mental and emotional well-being. Furthermore, the data reveals that 44% of leaders acknowledge feeling drained “always” or “often,” indicating that this phenomenon is not limited to entry-level positions or mid-level employees; it permeates all levels of an organization, including those in leadership roles.
Don't Ignore Burnout at Your Workplace
Burnout is often mistakenly perceived as merely a consequence of excessive workload or job demands. However, it is essential to recognize that burnout is a multifaceted issue that transcends the boundaries of workload alone. It is deeply intertwined with the concept of self-leadership, which refers to the ability of individuals to guide themselves through their own thoughts, emotions, and behaviors in a way that promotes personal and professional growth.
Companies that fail to address the root causes of burnout may find themselves facing high turnover rates, decreased employee morale, and a decline in performance. Therefore, it is crucial for organizations to foster an environment that not only recognizes the signs of burnout but also actively promotes self-leadership practices among employees and leaders alike.
Self-leadership
Self-leadership encompasses various aspects, including self-awareness, self-regulation, and the ability to motivate oneself. When employees and leaders alike lack effective self-leadership skills, they may struggle to manage stress, set healthy boundaries, and prioritize their well-being. This can result in a cycle where individuals become overwhelmed, leading to increased feelings of burnout. Moreover, the implications of burnout extend beyond individual experiences; they can significantly impact organizational culture, employee retention, and overall productivity.
Call To Action
While the statistics presented by Gallup are alarming, they serve as a call to action for both individuals and organizations. Burnout Isn’t Just a Feeling. It’s a Brain-State. Addressing burnout requires a holistic approach, as Burnout - that emphasizes the importance of self-leadership, encouraging employees at all levels to take ownership of their well-being and implement strategies that help mitigate the risk of burnout in the workplace. By investing in self-leadership development and creating supportive work environments, organizations can cultivate a healthier, more engaged workforce that is better equipped to thrive in the face of challenges.
What’s at Stake?
If you're leading teams, making critical decisions, or simply trying to stay afloat — your capacity to lead is only as strong as your nervous system. And this summer, you may need rest more than you realize.
🎯 Join Me for the 30-Day Self-Leadership Journey on YouTube:
Self-leadership begins with awareness, not overwhelm. You don’t have to do it alone.
🖥️ Subscribe here: @vlmleadershipcraft LeadershipCraft with Magdalena and start your journey today. 5–8 minutes a day. Just for you.
Do you believe there is a need for further discussion?
📩 Message me. Let’s talk about how to unblock your leadership - and your well-being.
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