As we honour International Women's Day, we acknowledge the vital need to spotlight not just the accomplishments of women in the tech industry but also the unique adversities they face. Amidst achievements, the challenge of experiencing burnout significantly affects many who strive to balance professional demands with personal well-being. Recognising that the ideal remedy involves systemic change — a goal that requires time and collective effort — we dive deep into a narrative of resilience, empowerment, and transformation, highlighting a holistic approach to navigating burnout.
In confronting her own burnout, our Chief People Officer Katarina Ferme embarked on a personal exploration journey, putting together insights from various resilience models that address the mental, emotional, and physical aspects essential for thriving in today's fast-paced tech environment.
Here we share her insights, as a testament to the power of resilience and uplifting other women going through burnout.
The resilience model she adopted stands on three pillars, each a critical aspect of overcoming the multifaceted challenge of burnout:
Let's explore each of these pillars in detail to understand their significance and application:
At the core of mental resilience lies the mastery of solving complex issues and making informed decisions, a skill set that transforms obstacles into stepping stones. This resilience is further fortified by the capacity for empathetic communication, ensuring messages are conveyed with clarity and warmth, thereby cultivating a foundation of trust. Essential to this resilience is a profound sense of purpose, guiding individuals to find meaning and direction in their work, and infusing their personal lives with a deeper sense of fulfillment.
Emotional resilience is about maintaining balance and thriving even when life throws curveballs. It starts with understanding what we can control in our lives and accepting what we can't, which, ultimately, helps us stay grounded. Managing our emotions and processing them in a healthy way allows us to face challenges without being overwhelmed. It's also about developing coping strategies that keep us moving forward positively. A key component is the support we receive from friends and family, offering a sense of belonging and an outlet for sharing our thoughts and seeking advice. At its heart, emotional resilience is built on self-esteem and self-love, encouraging us to appreciate our strengths and embrace ourselves fully. Gratitude plays a crucial role, as it shifts our focus to what's positive in our lives, while optimism about the future, even in the face of uncertainty, keeps us hopeful and resilient.
Physical resilience, on the other hand, is the foundation that supports our overall well-being, enabling us to tackle life's demands with energy and vitality. Key to this type of resilience is sleep hygiene. Quality rest rejuvenates the mind and body, equipping us to handle stress more effectively. Proper nutrition provides the essential fuel for our body's needs, supporting everything from brain function to physical stamina. Speaking of stamina, it's not just about enduring challenges but also about having the energy to engage fully in our daily activities and pursue our goals. Regular periods of rest and recovery are just as important, allowing our bodies and minds to recharge and heal. Lastly, incorporating fun and enjoyable activities into our routine isn't just a luxury; it's a critical aspect of maintaining our physical and emotional health, ensuring we have a balanced and fulfilling life.
Reflecting on this, it is clear that overcoming burnout requires a comprehensive approach, addressing the mental, emotional, and physical dimensions of our well-being. By embracing and sharing these holistic principles, we not only foster our own growth but also empower our colleagues, friends, and the broader community.
This International Women's Day, we advocate for deeper solidarity with women in tech, spotlighting the often-unseen struggle with burnout. By shining a light on their silent battles, we aim to foster supportive and more flexible workplace cultures that prioritise mental health and well-being. Committing to a culture of support and understanding enables every woman in tech to navigate her journey with strength, grace, and resilience, transforming vulnerability into victory.
Resources Katarina used that can serve as a great additional reading on this topic:
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