Digest

This episode of Women Road Warriors delves into the pervasive issue of burnout, particularly as it affects women. Hosts Shelley Johnson and Kathy Ticcaro welcome Dr. Sharon McLaughlin, a renowned expert in women's empowerment and author of "Thriving After Burnout." Dr. McLaughlin shares her personal journey of experiencing burnout as a plastic surgeon, highlighting the insidious nature of burnout and the importance of recognizing its warning signs. She emphasizes the role of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care in preventing and overcoming burnout. Kathy Ticcaro, a heavy equipment operator and motivational speaker, shares her own experience with burnout, highlighting the societal expectations placed on women to constantly give and the difficulty of saying no. Dr. McLaughlin and Kathy discuss the impact of imposter syndrome on women, particularly in demanding professions, and the importance of challenging self-limiting beliefs. The conversation emphasizes the need for women to prioritize their mental and physical health, communicate their needs effectively, and seek support from others. Dr. McLaughlin provides practical advice on how to cope with stress, set boundaries, and build resilience. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to prioritize their well-being, seek support, and embrace the power of saying no.

Outlines

00:00:00

Introduction

This Chapter introduces the Women Road Warriors podcast, hosted by Shelley Johnson and Cassie Ticcaro, and their mission to inspire and empower women in all professions. They welcome Dr. Sharon McLaughlin, an expert in women's empowerment and speaker in the field of women's empowerment, to the show.

00:02:37

Dr. McLaughlin's Burnout Journey

This Chapter delves into Dr. McLaughlin's personal experience with burnout. She shares how her father's illness became a turning point, prompting her to re-evaluate her life and career. She discusses the challenges of balancing work, family, and personal life, and how she felt overwhelmed and exhausted. Dr. McLaughlin emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of burnout and taking steps to address them.

00:06:50

Kathy's Burnout Experience

This Chapter features Kathy Ticcaro's personal story of burnout. She describes her experience as a single parent working full-time and pursuing further education, leading to a breakdown and a period of self-destruction. Kathy emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care, and how she learned to say no to protect her mental and physical health.

00:10:06

The Importance of Boundaries

This Chapter focuses on the role of boundaries in preventing and overcoming burnout. Dr. McLaughlin and Kathy discuss the societal expectations placed on women to be nurturers and people-pleasers, leading to a tendency to overextend themselves and neglect their own needs. They emphasize the importance of setting healthy boundaries, saying no, and prioritizing self-care.

00:16:21

Learning to Say No

This Chapter explores the power of saying no. Kathy shares her experience in a treatment center where she learned the importance of setting boundaries and how saying no has empowered her. She emphasizes the societal pressure on women to say yes and the importance of challenging those expectations.

00:21:57

Burnout and Imposter Syndrome

This Chapter examines the connection between burnout and imposter syndrome. Dr. McLaughlin discusses the statistics showing that women experience burnout at a higher rate than men, and how imposter syndrome can contribute to this. She emphasizes the importance of self-care, sleep, and challenging self-limiting beliefs in overcoming imposter syndrome.

00:29:11

Coping with Stress and Burnout

This Chapter focuses on strategies for coping with stress and burnout. Dr. McLaughlin emphasizes the importance of communication, asking for help, and setting boundaries. She encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and seek support from others.

00:33:26

Recovery from Burnout

This Chapter explores the process of recovery from burnout. Dr. McLaughlin and Kathy discuss the importance of taking time away from work and life stressors to reset and recharge. They emphasize the importance of rest, sleep, and self-care in the recovery process.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some common signs of burnout?

  Burnout is characterized by feelings of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion, cynicism, detachment, and a lack of accomplishment. You may feel drained, irritable, and unable to focus or concentrate. You may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and sleep problems.

• How can setting boundaries help prevent burnout?

  Setting boundaries allows you to protect your time, energy, and mental well-being. It involves communicating your needs, limits, and expectations clearly and assertively. By saying no to requests that drain your energy or conflict with your values, you can create space for self-care and prioritize your own well-being.

• What are some practical tips for coping with stress and burnout?

  Prioritize rest and sleep, aiming for at least seven hours of sleep per night. Engage in regular exercise, which can help reduce stress and improve mood. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga. Seek support from friends, family, or a therapist. Communicate your needs to others and ask for help when you need it.

• How can I overcome imposter syndrome?

  Challenge your self-limiting beliefs and focus on your accomplishments. Remind yourself of your skills, experience, and expertise. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors. Celebrate your successes and acknowledge your strengths. Remember that everyone experiences self-doubt at times, and it's important to be kind to yourself.

• What are some resources for women experiencing burnout?

  Dr. Sharon McLaughlin's book "Thriving After Burnout" provides valuable insights and strategies for overcoming burnout. Her podcast "Build Unshakable Confidence" offers practical advice on building confidence, setting boundaries, and creating a sustainable life. There are also numerous online resources and support groups dedicated to helping women manage stress and burnout.

• How can I make myself a priority in my life?

  Start by scheduling time for self-care activities that you enjoy and that nourish your mind, body, and spirit. This could include exercise, meditation, spending time in nature, or pursuing hobbies. Set boundaries with others to protect your time and energy. Communicate your needs clearly and assertively. Remember that taking care of yourself is not selfish; it's essential for your well-being and ability to show up fully for others.

• What are some ways to communicate my needs to others?

  Use "I" statements to express your feelings and needs without blaming or accusing others. For example, instead of saying "You never help me around the house," you could say "I feel overwhelmed when I'm responsible for all the housework." Be specific about what you need and how others can help. Be assertive but respectful in your communication. Remember that it's okay to say no to requests that drain your energy or conflict with your values.

• How can I find support from others?

  Reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for emotional support. Join a support group or online community for women experiencing burnout. Consider working with a coach or mentor who can provide guidance and accountability. Remember that you're not alone, and there are people who care about you and want to help.

• What are some signs that I might be experiencing imposter syndrome?

  You may doubt your accomplishments and feel like you're not as competent or intelligent as others perceive you to be. You may attribute your successes to luck or external factors rather than your own abilities. You may fear being exposed as a fraud or being judged by others. You may feel like you're constantly trying to prove yourself or meet unrealistic expectations.

• What are some ways to challenge my self-limiting beliefs?

  Identify the negative thoughts and beliefs that are holding you back. Challenge those beliefs by asking yourself if they are truly accurate or helpful. Replace negative thoughts with positive affirmations. Focus on your strengths and accomplishments. Seek feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors to gain a more objective perspective.

Show Notes