It just hit me this morning:
One reason that burnout is prevalent and persistent is the incorrect focus of PASSION before PURPOSE.
Here’s an example.
I work a good deal with the remarkable IDD/Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities world leaders.
They’re continually battling and trying to reduce burnout within their teams. They do a LOT of deeply good work, they are wonderful humans helping other wonderful humans live full lives. And they’re often frayed, fried, or burnt out.
And it Just Hit Me Right Now.
When we shine the spot light on ‘passion’ then we’re in the burnout zone.
“I’m passionate about the work I do.” needs to be decoded to – I’m throwing myself all into this work with no boundaries, because it’s what I think I am supposed to do.
Nope. That’s not the way to fulfilling and lasting, even regenerative work.
As brilliant boundary teacher Bonnie Bishop MPH, CHES teaches, without boundaries OF COURSE we’ll burnout. And fast.
Instead – if you’re a leader in IDD (and any industry) focus on the PURPOSE of your organization. Purpose is the bedrock to feeling and being connected with your work. Purpose includes being clear on what you do and what you don’t, guiding who you are so that you certainly do the work WHILE retaining your self.
I believe burnout is totally avoidable. And I’m not talking about the times where we are in an unanticipated sprint or marathon (short term or extended, i.e. a global pandemic).
I’m writing here about every day operations. Every day leadership isn’t about maxing people out – yourself included.
It’s about monitoring, limiting, and making choices that help maintain everyone – team, community, clients – while still executing the work.
It’s about modeling and living a connected life with boundaries.
Like terrific client partner Sara Stephens of SOWIB shared, in front of her entire leadership team – she’s keen to serve fewer in a more robust and deeper way. Yes. This is the right direction.
If you’re a mission driven organization like my business is (tax-status is irrelevant), then watch your boundaries. Pay attention to and nurture purpose before passion. Purpose is connective. Passion…well, it’ll fizzle, sunset, and eventually run out of gas.
How are you leading your organization with purpose?
Tell me below.
p.s. hosting leadership retreats is a wise practice to help fuel progress and battle burnout.
And if you want to talk about hiring me to help boost your retreats, let’s talk. It’s a sweet spot for connection that I love helping leaders with.