The Gendered Impact of Burnout: How Women Can Reclaim Their Power Through Rest
As a woman, and more so as a woman of colour, I’ve always felt like I had to prove myself to earn the right to be in the board room or at any decision-making table. I’d work twice as hard, stay longer, take on more responsibility - only to be overlooked or undervalued. And so I’d knuckle down and “work harder”. And all that ever led to was burnout, resentment and dissatisfaction.
This internalised pressure to out-perform is something I’ve noticed in many of my clients too. If you're reading this, you’re likely no stranger to the pressures of trying to balance work, family, and personal life demands. And while burnout can affect anyone, women, in particular, face unique challenges that can make it even more challenging to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
It’s only once I started working in the nervous system space, and regulating my nervous system, that I felt safe to stop hustling. I felt safe to slow down. I felt safe to take my foot off the gas and that’s when things really started to change for me. There’s more power in rest than there is in the hustle.
The Gendered Impact of Burnout
Research shows that women are more likely than men to experience burnout, especially in male-dominated fields or when they're the primary caregiver in their family. This can be attributed to a variety of factors, including unequal pay, lack of support at work and home, and societal expectations around gender roles.
For example, women are often expected to take on more unpaid labor, such as household chores and caregiving, which can leave them with less time and energy for self-care and rest. Women are also more likely to face discrimination and bias in the workplace, which can lead to added stress and burnout.
The Unique Challenges Women Face in Balancing Work and Life Demands
As a woman, you may feel pressure to excel at work, be a perfect parent, and maintain a picture-perfect home, all while keeping up with the latest fitness trends and social events. It's no wonder that burnout can feel inevitable. The reality is that it's challenging to maintain balance and prioritise self-care when you're constantly being pulled in different directions.
Reclaiming Your Power Through Rest
Despite the unique challenges women face when it comes to burnout, it's essential to remember that rest is a powerful tool for reclaiming your power and living a fulfilling life.
Set Boundaries:
Learn to say "no" when you need to and set boundaries around your time and energy. This can include delegating tasks, setting realistic expectations for yourself, and taking breaks when you need them.
Prioritise Self-Care:
Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. This can include getting enough sleep, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and engaging in physical activity you enjoy.
Build a Support System:
It takes a village! Surround yourself with people who lift you up and support you. This can include friends, family, or a therapist who can help you process your emotions and manage stress.
Advocate for Yourself:
Don't be afraid to speak up and advocate for yourself in the workplace. This can include negotiating for fair pay, asking for support or accommodations, and setting boundaries around your time and energy.
Ready to revolutionise your rest and recharge your nervous system?
Join The Rest Revolution - a free 5-day challenge designed for high-performing business and career women who want to prioritise rest and create new habits.
