Burnout is a discussion that seems to be everywhere right now. Who doesn’t feel a little more drained after 2020?
We’re now a quarter of the way through 2021 and, while we’re optimistic, it is proving this year is not going to be a walk in the park either.
Not only were our routines thrown into disarray in 2020 but, for many, there was an increased expectation to be available 24/7. This paired with continued economic challenges *means that burnout is on the rise.
iCLAW Managing Partner, Aasha Foley (pictured above) is one woman that can appreciate juggling motherhood with running a business and the stresses such firm responsibilities can bring. As one of NZ’s youngest partners and owners of a law firm, she has recently been recognised as a Rising Star 2021 by NZ Lawyer; but it hasn’t been easy.
“It has taken a healthy balance of ambition and hard work to get to where I am today. I’m stringent on work and life balance and try to maintain harmony – which at times has its challenges.”
Below, Aasha has compiled a short list for how she has avoided burnout throughout her career so far.
1. Focus on managing expectations
“Be direct, true and offer solution-based communications that are proactive, not just reactive. Have the ‘how we are going conversations’, as well as the ‘what are we doing’ conversations.
In my experience, this open communication can help build purposeful connections – whether with clients or staff – while also meaning you aren’t put under pressure either.
2. Ask for help and accept it! Recognise and know your breaking point
“It’s near impossible to unplug so it’s important to recognise when you’re close to or at a burnout stage and take steps to do something about it. Asking for help or delegating to a colleague, having a deep and meaningful over a drink, or lifting some weights. Work from home, change your environment, take a day off. Find ways to detach during the week in a way that works for you and be conscious to prioritise taking that time for yourself.”
3. Surround yourself with a great team
“It’s not about the size of that team, but the strength. We live by the culture we have created, formed on the core value of caring for others. And we all know what they say about how it takes a village!”
Read more about Aasha’s journey and how she has managed to stay balanced and avoid burn out in the May issue NZ Business Magazine.