A few years ago, I hit a wall.
I was doing all the right things—working hard, staying visible, saying yes to every opportunity—but something didn’t feel right. Some days I was overwhelmed. Other days, I felt like I was just going through the motions. And then there were times I couldn’t even find the energy to care.
Sound familiar?
Burnout is not one-size-fits-all. And until you understand the type you’re experiencing, it’s hard to fix. Through coaching and my own personal experience, I’ve found that there are three distinct types of burnout—and each requires a different strategy.
Let’s break them down:
Overload Burnout
You’re working long hours, always saying yes, and constantly trying to prove your worth.
What to do:
- Challenge your self-talk.
- Try: “I don’t need to work nonstop to be successful.”
- Focus on setting boundaries and restoring time for YOU.
Under-challenged Burnout
You’re bored, uninspired, and feel like you’ve hit a ceiling.
What to do:
- Set new personal goals.
- Try a course, passion project, or skill challenge—something fun and fulfilling.
- Find your spark again, even outside of work.
Neglect Burnout
You feel stuck, defeated, or like nothing you do makes a difference.
What to do:
- Create a “to-don’t” list—tasks to delegate, drop, or delay.
- Have open conversations with your manager.
- Prioritise self-care like it’s a deliverable.
Burnout is a signal—not a weakness. The key is understanding what your version of burnout is trying to tell you… and responding with strategy, not shame.
What type of burnout are you facing right now? Let’s talk in the comments.
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