How to Recover from Burnout

It was a few years ago when I hit a breaking point. I was working long hours as an entrepreneur while going to seminary and just starting out as a pastor. That, along with the joys and privileges of being both a husband and a father, made it hard for me to find balance. 

I was constantly stressed and anxious, struggling to stay focused and productive. I knew something had to change, but I didn't know what to do but PRAY. Well, I believe that it was prayer that led me to a book that helped me identify what it was that I was doing at that time. I was leading on empty.  

I’m not sure how I got the book. But there it was, sitting on the bookshelf. And the title was literally “Leading on Empty.” I picked up the book, and as I began to read, I found myself nodding along and recognizing my own struggles in the author’s words. The author, Wayne Cordeiro, shared his own experiences with burnout as a pastor and offered practical strategies for recovering from it. 

One of the key lessons I learned from the book is the importance of self-care. Cordeiro stressed that in order to help others, we must first take care of ourselves. He suggests prioritizing physical and mental health through exercise, proper nutrition, and getting enough sleep. At first, I found it difficult to make time for these things, but I realized that they were critical for my well-being.

Another lesson I learned from the book is the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Cordeiro suggests that we limit work hours and take regular breaks to prevent burnout. I realized that I had been neglecting other areas of my life in my pursuit of trying to meet deadlines. After a while, I figured out that most of the deadlines that I was trying to meet came from last-minute requests or unrealistic expectations. By setting boundaries and prioritizing my time, I was able to find a better balance and reduce my stress levels.

Cordeiro also points out the importance that we all need to take time to recharge. In order to prevent burnout from happening again, we need to engage in activities that bring us joy and fulfillment. For me, this meant taking up hobbies and hanging out with old friends.  

The most important lesson I got from the book is that we all need to seek support. Burnout can be a lonely and isolating experience, but it's important to remember that we're not alone. There’s Jesus, but there are also the people that God has put in your circle. Cordeiro recommends seeking support from family and friends, or get this… A therapist, counselor, or coach. I was hesitant at first, but I eventually began talking and found that talking about my struggles helped me feel less alone.

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