I’ve experienced business burnout a few times since starting my business a few years ago. I know how much of a struggle it is to pull yourself out of that mindset and regain your creativity and confidence.

If you’re experiencing business burnout, you aren’t alone. All entrepreneurs face it at some point and have to learn to overcome it. 

Keep reading for a few ways I pull myself out of burnout when I start to feel overwhelmed and tired.

Key Takeaways:

• Signs of burnout to notice
• Understanding the cause of your burnout
• 3 ways I pull myself out of burnout
• Systems I’ve put in place to prevent burnout

Recognizing the Signs of Burnout

It’s important to recognize signs of burnout so you can address them as soon as possible. The longer you avoid them, the worse your burnout could be.

Here are some business burnout signs to pay attention to:

• Irritability with clients
• Detachment from project outcomes
• Anxiety about client work
• Trouble sleeping
• Procrastinating on starting client or business work
• Dropping the ball on client projects
• Loss of excitement or motivation toward your business

If you’ve been feeling this way for over a month, you’re probably heading toward burnout.

Getting Honest About What’s Causing It

Now we need to understand what’s causing our burnout. The cause of burnout needs to be addressed and fixed so you don’t have even more burnout in the future.

These are a few examples:

• Overcommitting or undercharging
• Lack of boundaries with clients or hours
• Comparison and unrealistic expectations
• Pressure to constantly market yourself
• Trying to do everything yourself

I’ve done a few of these myself and experienced burnout. If your work isn’t fulfilling and more of a drag, you probably need to take a look at your systems, processes, mindset, or boundaries. Something is misaligned.

3 Ways I Handle Business Burnout

When I’m starting to feel burned out in my business, I try these three things first.

1. Take a Step Back

First, I take a step back from my business. It helps to reduce the pressure of client work and marketing myself, and see the bigger picture of my business. 

I have to remind myself that I’m in charge of my business. If I want to take a month off and not sign any new clients, I can. I need to take more breaks for my mental health and creativity.

2. Make Time for Other Creative Outlets

Once I have more time on my hands, I spend time doing other creative things that don’t have to do with my business. I make time for the hobbies and activities I love doing, such as:

• Reading books
• Swing dancing
• Getting outside
• Bible study and journaling

3. Going to In-Person Networking Events

Even if I’m feeling some business burnout, I force myself to go to in-person networking events. It really helps me to talk to other entrepreneurs who get it. 

We’ve all felt some level of burnout before. It helps me feel not so alone and in my head. These ladies have validated my feelings and inspired me to get back on track.

4 Systems I’ve Put in Place to Prevent Future Burnout

These systems aren’t perfect, but they’ve helped me avoid business burnout on more than one occasion.

1. Better Time Blocking and Realistic Planning

I noticed that I get burned out when I overbook myself. I can’t keep up with the amount of work I’ve committed to, and I get overwhelmed. 

I learned how to time block for specific client projects and be realistic about how much I can take on at once. I also schedule time for rest in my calendar!

2. Automating Repetitive Tasks

Automation has greatly helped my business burnout. I don’t have to keep track of every client invoice, contract, proposal, or call. I use Dubsado to help me automate all of that. My business is operating without my constant intervention.

3. Setting Firm Client Boundaries

I think this is something we could all be better at! I had to learn how to set boundaries with my clients regarding communication, availability, and scope. I learned when it was time to say no to a project or gently remind clients how to get in touch with me.

Setting and enforcing boundaries is uncomfortable, but it’s necessary to avoid business burnout.

4. Outsourcing

Audit what you’re spending time on and what you could outsource to someone else – especially tasks that are out of your wheelhouse or you simply dislike. This keeps your creativity and energy focused on what you’re best at.

Encouragement for Other Burned-Out Entrepreneurs

If you’ve been feeling burned out in your business, you aren’t alone, and you aren’t a failure. We all feel that way at some point. 

You created your business to have more freedom. You aren’t a slave to your business—you can rebuild it so it works for your lifestyle.

Give yourself permission to slow down, pivot, or take a break. I promise the world won’t end, and you will come back feeling more inspired and creative.

Just one small step can make the biggest difference ❤️

My newsletter is full of people who want to build a more sustainable business. Join us for weekly tips and resources.

FAQs About Business Burnout

What do business owners struggle with the most?

From talking to other business owners, many of us struggle to turn off our brains and walk away from our business for a short period. We might leave our desks, but ideas and things to do are constantly swirling around in our brains. We also don’t feel like we can take time off, even though it’s 100% necessary for our mental health. 

How does burnout affect business performance?

You probably won’t be as productive or creative if you’re working while being burned out. If you don’t address it and let it fester, it could result in missed deadlines or lower-quality work.

How to fix burnout without quitting?

Take a step back and reassess your business. Whether it’s a few days or a few weeks, putting your focus elsewhere can help you come back with a clearer vision for your business.