My journey from corporate burnout to holistic coach

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In the midst of my career, I found myself on a path I thought I had always wanted.

I was working remotely, recently received a promotion, and managed a team of ten talented individuals, all while enjoying the external validation of being seen as a "good worker," a “girl boss,” and a 6-figure earner.

The pay increase felt like a reward for my hard work; on the surface, I had it all together. But behind that facade, I was already exhausted and teetering on the edge of burnout.

This is the story of my journey from corporate exhaustion to becoming a holistic coach.

The Turning Point: From Burnout to Breakthrough

A Promised Vacation and a Pandemic Unfolds

As 2019 drew to a close, I accepted a new position, excited about its prospects.

Before diving into my new role, I made a simple request – a vacation, a much-needed break to recharge and prepare for the challenges ahead. My employers, eager for me to begin, assured me I could take that vacation whenever I wanted, perhaps in three or four months. So, with optimism in my heart, I started the new role in early February 2020.

But life had a different plan. The world was about to be turned upside down by the COVID-19 pandemic. Like many other plans, that vacation was shelved, and I found myself thrust into managing a global team as the world descended into chaos.

The Tumultuous Road to a Company Sale

The summer of 2020 brought further challenges. A competitor approached our company for a buyout, and we entered the intense due diligence process. The hours became erratic, I was having trouble sleeping, and my own well-being took a backseat. Supporting a team spread across multiple time zones in the throes of a global crisis was no small feat.

By November 2020, the sale was complete, and the toll on my mental and emotional health was undeniable. Officially, I suffered from depression and anxiety, and medication became a lifeline.

Holding the Fort in a Sinking Ship

Despite my growing exhaustion, I stayed with the acquiring company for about three more months. Everyone on the original leadership team had left, and I was the last one standing. It felt as if the weight of the company was on my shoulders. The stress, frustration, and exhaustion were taking their toll, and the tears flowed daily.

In early 2021, I reached my breaking point and finally decided to quit. I needed a break, a chance to recover and to regain my sense of self.

Six Months of Recovery: A Journey Inward

My journey to recovery began with a six-month break during the continued lockdown. I couldn't travel or really leave the house, so I spent most of my days inside cycling through sleeping and eating. Occasionally, I would immerse myself in a creative outlet, which was kicked off when I bought a painting-by-numbers kit, as a way to mix something new into my mundane routine. 

Slowly but surely, I started doing things for my own well-being again. I began going for massages, seeing a naturopath, undergoing acupuncture, seeking counselling, journaling, taking a painting class, practicing yoga, going to the gym, and enjoying walks with my husband.

While I was still experiencing burnout, these modalities slowly helped me reconnect with the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual aspects of myself. The more I did that, the closer I came to understanding who I really was and what I truly wanted in my life.

Navigating Burnout and Life Transitions

Burnout and life transitions can be incredibly challenging, and I've learned firsthand the importance of taking care of one's well-being.

Because of my burnout experience, I feel compelled to partner with others to find their clarity and purpose. Through empathy, understanding, and a deep commitment to your journey, I'm here to walk alongside you as you navigate your own path to recovery and self-discovery.

Along my own journey, I've discovered some valuable resources that I thought I’d share with you along yours if you so choose. Here are a few that really helped me and offered profound insights into the healing process.

• The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk MD

• Transcending Trauma by Beverly Sartain

• Awakening a Women's Soul by Bev Janisch

• A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle

• The Myth of Normal by Gabor Maté MD and Daniel Maté

Support Is Here If You Need It

Remember that you're not alone when facing burnout, life transitions, or simply seeking a more authentic and purposeful life. Your journey begins with taking that first step, and I'm here to guide you if you choose.

Let's start a conversation, not as a coach but as someone who's experienced the challenges of burnout and disconnection. I'm here to listen, understand, and help you uncover your own path to clarity and purpose.