Beating Burnout: Theresa Pidcock Of zant On The 5 Things You Should Do If You Are Experiencing Work Burnout

An Interview With Jake Frankel

Reflect and Reevaluate: The first step is introspection. Think back to a time when you felt fulfilled and energized. What were the key factors contributing to that positive state? Was it a particular project, the people around you, or your work environment? Once you identify these elements, create a roadmap to reintegrate them into your current situation. For instance, a colleague of mine realized she was happiest when working on creative projects. She spoke to her supervisor and gradually shifted her role to include more of these tasks, which significantly improved her job satisfaction.

Millions of Americans are returning back to work after being home during the pandemic. While this has been exciting for many, some are feeling burned out by their work. What do you do if you are feeling burned out by your work? How do you reverse it? How can you “get your mojo back”? What can employers do to help their staff reverse burnout?

In this interview series called “Beating Burnout: 5 Things You Should Do If You Are Experiencing Work Burnout,” we are talking to successful business leaders, HR leaders, and mental health leaders who can share insights from their experience about how we can “Beat Burnout.”

As a part of this series, I had the pleasure of interviewing Theresa Pidcock.

Theresa Pidcock is an executive coach with multiple certifications and a master’s degree in business dynamics, known for her passion for unlocking individual greatness. Her coaching philosophy centers on recognizing and harnessing the untapped potential within each person, emphasizing the power of emotions to achieve extraordinary results. With a commitment to leading through collaboration and a talent for solving complex problems, Theresa inspires clients to unleash their true potential and cultivate a winning mindset for personal and professional fulfillment.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive into the main focus of our interview, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your childhood backstory?

I had the privilege of growing up in a quaint coastal town, a place that, at the time, was untouched by the rapid developments happening not too far away in Silicon Valley. This proximity to a future technological epicenter was unbeknownst to me then, as our town remained a serene, sleepy locale, seemingly worlds away from the bustling tech hub it neighbored.

Our town had a charming, rhythmic pattern to it — in summers, we’d see an influx of tourists, drawn by the allure of the sun and sea, transforming our quiet community into a lively, vibrant spot. When winter rolled in, the crowds would dissipate, leaving behind a cool, foggy haven where local surfers reclaimed the waves and the sense of close-knit community returned. It was a place where most faces were familiar, and the slow-paced, peaceful environment of our town provided a stark contrast to the fast-paced growth and change that Silicon Valley was experiencing.

Growing up in such an environment had its unique charm and lessons. It instilled in me an appreciation for both the quiet, steady rhythm of small-town life and the dynamic, ever-changing nature of the world just beyond our borders. This duality, I believe, later played a significant role in shaping my perspectives on work, life, and the balance between the two.

What or who inspired you to pursue your career? We’d love to hear the story.

In part, the inspiration for my career trajectory in consulting stems from my early experiences with traditional command and control leadership styles. Initially, I witnessed and experienced the rigid, top-down approach in various organizations. This old-school method of leadership, focusing on hierarchy and control, often led to environments lacking in empathy and flexibility. Seeing the limitations and often the negative impact of this style sparked a desire in me to foster change.

I was driven by the vision of transforming leadership into a more humane and effective practice. The concept of healing and humanizing corporate America became a guiding principle for me. I realized that leadership could be a powerful tool for positive change, not only in businesses but also in the lives of individuals within these organizations.

My career path was shaped by this desire to move away from outdated leadership models and towards a more empathetic, understanding, and people-focused approach. This led to the establishment of my company, where I have aimed to guide leaders in adopting strategies that prioritize emotional intelligence, employee well-being, and a culture of open communication. The goal has always been to create healthier, more productive work environments where people feel valued and motivated. This results in better profits as well. It’s about shifting the narrative of leadership from control to empowerment.

None of us can achieve success without some help along the way. Was there a particular person who you feel gave you the most help or encouragement to be who you are today? Can you share a story about that?

My journey to where I am today has been a collaborative one, filled with guidance and inspiration from many mentors. It’s difficult to single out one individual as the most influential, as each one has uniquely contributed to my growth and development. I strongly believe in the concept of a personal board of directors, a group of diverse individuals who represent the qualities, achievements, and values that I strive to emulate. This board serves as more than just a professional advisory group; it influences every aspect of my life.

For example, I draw business insight from one member, while another inspires me with their approach to family life. Each person on this board plays a critical role in shaping my principles and guiding my decisions. This diverse mentorship has allowed me to gain a comprehensive understanding of leadership, blending professional acumen with personal wisdom.

Some people look at those who have what they don’t with envy, but I look at them as sources of motivation, inspiration, and learning. Embracing their successes in both the professional realm and in their personal lives has been key to developing a well-rounded approach to leadership. This philosophy of inclusive mentorship has been a driving force in my career, constantly encouraging me to adapt and grow both as a leader and as an individual.

Can you share the funniest or most interesting mistake that occurred to you in the course of your career? What lesson or takeaway did you learn from that?

Reflecting on my career, I’ve encountered a myriad of situations while managing teams, each with its own set of challenges and lessons. Though not exactly ‘interesting mistakes’ in the traditional sense, these experiences have certainly been eye-opening. From dealing with embezzlement to navigating the complexities of team members who evaded background checks, each incident was unique. There were also emergencies like fires near our offices, necessitating quick evacuations, and significant weather events disrupting our plans. On top of this, the everyday dynamics of team management brought drama, from backstabbing among the employees to client misrepresentations.

Perhaps the closest to an ‘interesting mistake’ was an incident on my first day training a new employee. In an unexpected turn of events, our first drive out of the parking lot ended in a car accident! While these situations weren’t humorous at the time, they’ve added to the rich tapestry of my experience in management. They’ve taught me that in leadership, one must always be prepared for the unexpected and maintain adaptability and resilience, no matter how unusual or challenging the situation may be.

Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson Quote”? Why does that resonate with you so much?

One of my favorite life lesson quotes is by Mel Robbins: ‘Be your own biggest fan. Love yourself and give yourself the things that you need.’ This resonates deeply with me as it highlights the importance of self-care and self-love, concepts often misunderstood or mistaken for selfishness. I firmly believe that caring for oneself is not an act of indulgence but a necessity. While some might see being ‘spoiled’ or ‘high maintenance’ in a negative light, I view these traits as positive when balanced with love and kindness towards others.

The truth is, that many people struggle with self-love due to misconceptions about what it means to prioritize oneself. This becomes a barrier to giving themselves the care and attention they deserve. We’ve all heard the saying, ‘You can’t pour from an empty cup,’ and my experience has proven this to be unequivocally true. Trying to give to others without first attending to your own needs is unsustainable.

Being your own biggest fan and practicing self-love enables you to support and elevate others more effectively. It’s about setting an example of what it means to be a healthy, complete individual. When you love and care for yourself, you are better positioned to lift others in the ways they need most and to demonstrate the essence of holistic well-being.

What are some of the most interesting or exciting projects you are working on now? How do you think that might help people?

At this moment, I’m engaged in some truly invigorating projects, several of which I believe have a significant role in addressing work-related burnout. One key focus is the enhancement of our emotional intelligence programs. By helping individuals develop better self-awareness and empathy, we’re equipping them with tools to manage stress and interpersonal dynamics more effectively, which are crucial skills in combating burnout.

Additionally, another exhilarating development on the horizon is our planned expansion into a lifestyle-focused area in late 2024. This expansion is not just about business growth; it’s about deepening our engagement with clients on a more personal level. We’re aiming to offer support that goes beyond traditional business consulting to encompass lifestyle elements that contribute to overall well-being and create conversations. This move is in response to the growing realization that personal happiness and professional success are deeply intertwined.

I believe these initiatives are particularly relevant in today’s high-pressure work environments where burnout is increasingly common. By addressing the ‘heart of people’ — their emotional and lifestyle needs — we’re not just fostering business success; we’re contributing to the creation of healthier, more resilient professionals. This holistic approach, which has always been a passion of mine, is more important than ever in our fast-paced, often stressful world. The aim is to help individuals not just survive but thrive in both their personal and professional lives.

You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

1. The Ability to Multitask and Prioritize: My life managing a household with five children has been a masterclass in multitasking and prioritization. This chaos, though challenging, has been a perfect training ground for handling the fast-paced, unpredictable nature of the business world. I learned early on that not all tasks are created equal; some require immediate attention while others can wait. This skill has been invaluable in my professional life, where being able to quickly assess and address multiple tasks simultaneously is crucial. It’s not about having a large family or not; it’s about learning to juggle various responsibilities effectively, a skill that can truly change your life.

2. Discerning What’s Truly Important: In my early leadership days, it felt like every issue was urgent. However, with time, I realized the importance of triaging problems and understanding what truly warrants immediate attention. This discernment has been key to not only thriving in my role but also in maintaining my well-being. Learning to assign the appropriate level of importance to issues is a skill that has significantly contributed to my success, helping me stay focused on what matters.

3. The Ability to Reverse Engineer: One of my strengths is my ability to reverse engineer processes and problems. This skill has made me an expert in simplifying complex tasks and breaking them down into manageable steps. It’s a trait that many of my clients value and seek in my consultancy. Often, in business, it’s easy to get lost in minute details. However, by stepping back and looking at the bigger picture, I can gain a clearer understanding and find more efficient paths to achieving goals. This perspective allows me to tackle challenges in a way that is both effective and enlightening.

For the benefit of our readers, can you briefly let us know why you are an authority on the topic of burnout?

I have become an authority on the topic of burnout through both personal experience and my extensive work with clients and loved ones who have also faced this challenge. Burnout is a multifaceted issue, and its stages can manifest differently in individuals. I have witnessed the various faces of burnout, from subtle signs to more severe manifestations.

In my journey, I have experienced burnout, and it manifested in alarming ways. I encountered blinding migraines that led to temporary vision loss and even stroke-like symptoms that required hospitalization. Additionally, I grappled with unexplained chronic stomach pain that defied diagnosis through numerous medical tests and consultations. Remarkably, these symptoms subsided when I made significant lifestyle changes and reduced stress in my life.

Furthermore, I have closely observed the experiences of others. For instance, I know someone who, due to extreme job-related stress, would stop breathing during sleep. While not a medical professional, I believe that his stress was the primary contributor to this issue, as his sleep patterns normalized when the stressors were removed.

These real-life stories underscore the profound impact that burnout can have on individuals, both mentally and physically. While I’m not a doctor, my experiences and interactions have deepened my understanding of burnout and equipped me to provide valuable insights and guidance to those who are grappling with this issue.

Ok, thank you for all of that. Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview about beating burnout. Let’s begin with a basic definition of terms so that all of us are on the same page. How do you define “Burnout”? Can you explain?

Certainly, burnout is when individuals experience intense physical and mental exhaustion, often accompanied by a sense of doubt and detachment from their work or responsibilities. It occurs when people consistently experience high levels of stress and feel inundated by their demands, whether in their professional or personal lives. Burnout is not just a temporary feeling of tiredness; it’s a chronic condition that can have profound effects on mental and physical well-being.

One key aspect of burnout is the feeling of reduced effectiveness or a lack of accomplishment in their tasks, which can lead to a sense of frustration and inadequacy. It’s important to note that burnout is not solely related to workload; it can also result from a mismatch between an individual’s values, goals, and the demands placed upon them.

Burnout is a complicated phenomenon characterized by emotional exhaustion, detachment, and reduced personal achievement, and it can impact numerous areas of a person’s life, including their health, relationships, and overall sense of well-being.

How would you define or describe the opposite of burnout?

The opposite of burnout can be described as a state of well-being and balance. It is a condition where individuals feel physically and mentally energized, engaged, and fulfilled in their work or personal lives. Unlike burnout, which is characterized by exhaustion and detachment, the opposite of burnout involves a sense of vitality, enthusiasm, and a strong connection to one’s tasks and responsibilities.

In this state, individuals often experience a high level of motivation and satisfaction in what they do. They feel a sense of accomplishment, effectiveness, and purpose in their work or daily activities. They are better able to handle stress and challenges, and they maintain a positive outlook on their responsibilities.

The opposite of burnout is marked by a sense of harmony between one’s values, goals, and the demands placed upon them. It involves a healthy work-life balance, where individuals have the time and energy to pursue their interests, maintain meaningful relationships, and prioritize self-care.

Overall, the opposite of burnout represents a state of well-being where individuals thrive, both mentally and physically, in their professional and personal lives.

This might be intuitive to you, but it will be instructive to expressly articulate this. Some skeptics may argue that burnout is a minor annoyance and we should just “soldier on’’ and “grin and bear it.” Can you please share a few reasons why burnout can have long-term impacts on our individual health, as well as the health and productivity of our society?

The long-term consequences of burnout are extensive and can manifest in various ways, including:

1. Mental Health Issues: Burnout often leads to conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. These conditions can persist over time and have a severe impact on an individual’s well-being.

2. Physical Health: Burnout can contribute to physical health problems, including increased risk of heart disease, obesity, and gastrointestinal issues. Chronic stress, a common component of burnout, has been linked to a range of health problems.

3. Insomnia: Many individuals experiencing burnout struggle with sleep disturbances and insomnia. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate both mental and physical health issues.

4. Reduced Productivity: Burnout leads to decreased productivity and performance at work or in daily tasks. This can have detrimental effects on one’s career and overall life satisfaction.

5. Strained Relationships: Burnout can lead to emotional exhaustion and detachment, straining personal relationships with family, friends, and colleagues.

6. Risk of Addiction: Some individuals turn to unhealthy coping mechanisms, such as substance abuse, when dealing with burnout, which can lead to addiction issues.

7. Inflammation and Health Complications: Prolonged stress and burnout can trigger chronic inflammation in the body, increasing the risk of various diseases and health complications.

8. Absenteeism: Burnout often results in increased absenteeism from work or other responsibilities, impacting not only the individual but also their workplace and society as a whole.

From your experience, perspective, or research, what are the main causes of burnout?

Burnout can easily creep into our lives in this age of constant connectivity. Rather than focusing solely on the causes of burnout, it’s essential to develop a proactive strategy to prevent it and live a balanced life. This perspective is not pessimistic; instead, it empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and avoid burnout.

In my experience, preventing burnout involves creating a game plan and playing offense rather than defense. It’s about being prepared and taking steps to buffer against it. Let me share a personal example from our family life:

When our children were young, we made a deliberate choice that went against the popular trend of having kids participate in multiple sports throughout the year. Instead, we allowed each child to play one sport per year. This decision was based on our values of having quality family time and avoiding the chaos of constantly shuttling kids to various activities. It meant trying to have our kids at home in the evenings, eating together as a family, doing homework at the table, and having a structured bedtime routine. While this approach may not have made us popular among some people, it streamlined our hectic lives as much as possible and allowed us to focus on other aspects of our family life.

Today, even with our children grown and out of the house, my husband and I continue to prioritize our well-being. We are clear about our life goals and values, and we plan our activities and commitments accordingly. We understand the importance of setting boundaries and practicing self-care. Regardless of who makes requests or the nature of the occasion, we prioritize our health and energy boundaries. If we foresee that an activity or commitment will deplete us, we are not afraid to say “no” and protect ourselves from burnout.

What can an individual do if they are feeling burned out by work? How does one reverse it? How can you “get your mojo back?” Can you please share your “5 Things You Should Do If You Are Experiencing Work Burnout?”.

Work burnout is a critical issue in today’s high-pressure professional environment, but there are effective strategies to combat it and regain your vitality. Here are five key approaches:

1. Reflect and Reevaluate: The first step is introspection. Think back to a time when you felt fulfilled and energized. What were the key factors contributing to that positive state? Was it a particular project, the people around you, or your work environment? Once you identify these elements, create a roadmap to reintegrate them into your current situation. For instance, a colleague of mine realized she was happiest when working on creative projects. She spoke to her supervisor and gradually shifted her role to include more of these tasks, which significantly improved her job satisfaction.

2. Simplify Your Commitments: When overwhelmed, it’s important to reassess your commitments. It’s okay to step back from obligations that no longer serve your well-being. For example, a friend once committed to numerous volunteer roles on top of a demanding job. When she felt burnout creeping in, she prioritized her commitments and stepped down from a few roles, which dramatically reduced her stress levels.

3. Master Time Management: Effective time management can be a game changer. Assess how you’re currently spending your time and identify areas for improvement. Perhaps some activities or commitments are eating into your productive time without adding value. A colleague of mine found she was spending too much time on trivial tasks. By restructuring her day and focusing on high-priority tasks, she gained more control over her workload and reduced feelings of burnout.

4. Seek Support: It’s essential to remember that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. On the contrary, it’s a sign of strength and self-awareness. Whether it’s delegating tasks at work, seeking professional advice, or just talking to a friend, support can provide relief and perspective. I once advised a team member to delegate some of her workload to other colleagues, which not only alleviated her stress but also fostered a more collaborative team environment.

5. Set Realistic Deadlines: In today’s culture, there’s often pressure to meet tight deadlines, which can lead to burnout. It’s important to set achievable goals and communicate openly with your team and supervisors about what’s realistic. A client of mine learned to negotiate deadlines that allowed her to produce quality work without the constant stress, leading to a more sustainable and enjoyable work life.

Overcoming burnout is a journey. It requires you to take a step back, assess your situation, and make intentional changes. By implementing these strategies, you can reclaim your enthusiasm and energy for your work.”

What can concerned friends, colleagues, and life partners do to help someone they care about reverse burnout?

Certainly, supporting someone experiencing burnout is crucial, and similar to the ways to help yourself if you’re feeling burned out, it often requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some ways concerned friends, colleagues, and life partners can help:

1. Speak the Truth in Love: Express your concerns genuinely and honestly, but with empathy and care. Let the person know that you’ve noticed changes in their behavior, mood, or well-being. Avoid judgment and criticism and focus on your genuine care for their well-being.

2. Create an Environment of Safety: It’s essential to create a safe space where the person feels comfortable sharing their feelings and struggles. Encourage open and non-judgmental communication. Be a good listener and validate their experiences.

3. Offer Specific Help: Instead of asking, “How can I help?” consider taking proactive steps to assist. For example, you can offer to take on specific tasks or to lighten their load whether it’s helping with household chores, running errands, or providing support at work, being proactive shows your willingness to alleviate their stress.

4. Be Patient and Understanding: Understand that recovering from burnout is a process that takes time. Be patient and don’t pressure them to “snap out of it” quickly. Offer your continued support and be there for them as they navigate their journey towards recovery.

5. Encourage Self-Care: Gently encourage the person to prioritize self-care. This could include suggesting relaxation techniques, hobbies, or activities that bring joy and relaxation. Offer to join them in these activities if it helps create a sense of companionship and motivation.

6. Respect Boundaries: While offering help, also respect their boundaries. Some individuals may need space and time to recharge. Be attuned to their needs and be flexible in your approach.

7. Seek Professional Help if Necessary: If the burnout is severe or long-lasting, encourage them to seek professional help. A therapist or counselor can provide valuable guidance and support.

8. Check-In Regularly: Maintain regular contact and check in on their well-being. A simple text or phone call can go a long way in letting them know you care and are there for them.

What can employers do to help their staff reverse burnout?

Certainly, here are five key strategies employers can implement to help their staff reverse burnout and promote a healthier work environment:

1. Lead by Example: Demonstrate a healthy work-life balance and prioritize self-care to set a positive example for employees.

2. Open Communication: Foster a culture of open communication where employees can discuss burnout concerns and receive support.

3. Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer flexibility in work arrangements to accommodate individual needs and reduce stress.

4. Mental Health Resources: Provide access to mental health resources and encourage employees to seek help when needed.

5. Realistic Expectations: Set manageable workloads and expectations, recognize contributions, and ensure employees take regular breaks to prevent burnout.

These ideas are wonderful, but sadly they are not yet commonplace. What strategies would you suggest to raise awareness about the importance of supporting the mental wellness of employees?

To raise awareness about the importance of supporting employees’ mental wellness, we need to challenge the outdated notion that success comes at the expense of well-being. Instead, we should prioritize mental health and wellness in the workplace, offer these services as part of regular benefits, and lead by example as leaders. This involves educating and training employees on mental health awareness, normalizing conversations about mental health, implementing flexible policies to support work-life balance, and recognizing and rewarding those who prioritize their mental wellness. By taking these steps, we can create workplaces that value mental health as much as success, ultimately benefiting both employees and organizations.

What are a few of the most common mistakes you have seen people make when they try to reverse burnout in themselves or others? What can they do to avoid those mistakes?

One common mistake I’ve observed is that people often don’t take burnout seriously enough. They might dismiss their exhaustion and stress as simply being tired or having a bad day. Another common mistake is that some individuals begin the process of reversing burnout but, at the first hint of feeling better, they prematurely stop their self-care practices and return to the habits that contributed to their burnout in the first place.

It’s important to recognize that burnout doesn’t happen overnight, and the journey to recovery is also a gradual process. Just like setting and achieving any other goal, reversing burnout requires time and consistent effort. The road to recovery may have its ups and downs, but the good news is that once you understand the “dials” and find the right frequency for self-care, you can continue to fine-tune your well-being and potentially experience an even higher level of vitality and fulfillment. Avoiding these mistakes involves staying committed to the journey of recovery and recognizing that self-care is an ongoing practice.

Ok, we are nearly done. You are a person of great influence. If you could inspire a movement that would bring the most amount of good to the greatest number of people, what would that be? You never know what your idea can trigger.

I often emphasize the importance of kindness, and today, I’d like to focus on the wellness of the self. Imagine if everyone took a moment to step back and assess their lives. What kind of picture would they see? Are they truly taking care of themselves, not just physically but also mentally and spiritually?

Consider your “self-talk” — how do you speak to yourself daily? Have you nourished your body with healthy food and stayed hydrated? When was the last time you simply stretched, allowing your body the movement it craves? And what about the power of saying ‘No’? Are you comfortable setting boundaries when necessary, or does guilt weigh you down for doing so?

Are there unresolved feelings of anger within you? Have you processed and released them? It’s essential to understand that holding onto anger, especially when it’s not communicated to the other party, only poisons your well-being.

These questions may seem casual, but they provide a starting point for assessing your overall health and well-being. By addressing and healing these aspects of our lives, we have the potential to ignite a global movement focused on holistic wellness and self-care. This movement could be transformative, foster greater health and happiness for people around the world, and work to avoid burnout.

We are very blessed that some of the biggest names in Business, VC funding, Sports, and Entertainment read this column. Is there a person in the world, or in the US, whom you would love to have a private breakfast or lunch with, and why? He or she might just see this, especially if we both tag them :-)

Instead of singling out a specific big name, I’d like to emphasize the importance of personal connections in our lives. For me, it’s about reaching out to someone who truly inspires and uplifts you, whether they are a close friend, a family member, or even a mentor. Take the initiative to invite them to a heartfelt breakfast or lunch. I’ve found that some of the most meaningful and cherished moments in life happen when we connect with those who genuinely matter to us. It’s not just about business or fame; it’s about nurturing our relationships and making time for heartfelt conversations. I encourage our readers to choose someone special in their lives and create a memorable experience together. Then, message me and let me know what it meant to you!

How can our readers further follow your work online?

You can stay updated with my work online through my website, which is https://theresapidcock.com/. Additionally, you can connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresahampsonpidcock, and you’ll find me on Instagram under the username @theresapidcock. I’m always eager to connect with readers, learn about your experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions, so please feel free to reach out, and let’s enjoy the journey together.

Thank you for these really excellent insights, and we greatly appreciate the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success and good health!

• All photos included in this article are by Brio Photography.