Let me say it: Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It creeps in, often disguised as “hustle”, “commitment”, or my least favorite— “just pushing through.”
I’ve been there. As a coach/therapist for over 19 years, 10 of those in private practice, I’ve learned that burnout doesn’t discriminate—even when you’re doing work you love.
The truth is, coaches are helpers. And helpers often give without pause. The result? We become the very thing we coach our clients to avoid: exhausted, disconnected, and resentful of the work we once felt so passionate about.
Why Coaches Burn Out (The Reality Check):
According to research published in The Journal of Occupational Health Psychology, professionals in “helping” roles—coaches, therapists, and educators—are especially prone to burnout.
Here’s why:
- You Hold Space for Everyone Else’s Problems.
You carry their fears, their breakthroughs, their setbacks—sometimes without realizing it. - You “Do It All” Because You Care.
Admin, marketing, coaching, finances… If you’re a solopreneur coach, you’re wearing every hat. - You Neglect Your Own Support Systems.
Coaches who don’t have their own support (mentors, therapists, or supervision) are at higher risk of burnout.
Practical Steps to Avoid Burnout (That I Live By):
- Create Boundaries That Protect Your Energy.
- Boundaries are not selfish; they are self-preservation. Decide on “working hours” and stick to them.
- Make Space for Self-Coaching and Reflection.
- Every Friday, I ask myself: “What drained me this week? What gave me energy?” I adjust accordingly.
- Lean into Systems and Processes.
- Systems reduce decision fatigue. Automate your onboarding, use templates, and time-block your calendar. Less chaos = less stress.
- Prioritize Downtime as a Business Strategy.
- Burnout doesn’t make you a better coach. Being rested does. Take time off, guilt-free.
- Get Support (Yes, Even Coaches Need Coaches).
- Hire a coach, join a mastermind, or find a peer group. You don’t have to carry the weight alone.
Closing Thought:
You started coaching to serve, not to suffer. Avoiding burnout isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing what matters most.
Want to do more work in this area? Ask me about my new program, The Mindful Coach.
Love, Olga
