How I Went from Burnout to Balance Overnight
Navigating the fast-paced environment of a demanding career in digital marketing often feels like a constant battle. For many of us, myself included, the journey from overwhelming stress to a place of balance and fulfillment has been anything but smooth. Yet, through intention-setting and learning valuable lessons along the way, I’ve discovered that overcoming these obstacles really was part of the process. Read along as I share my personal journey of conquering burnout and finding harmony in the world of client-facing agencies.
Overcoming Obstacles 😒
Early in March of 2020 is when I started working at DMA Solutions. Everyone was so welcoming, and I was super excited to begin a new job and learn as much as I could. After just two short weeks, the world shut down due to the pandemic. All of a sudden, we stopped going to the office and my new coworkers were named Mom and Dad…
I had no choice but to continue my training and onboarding 100% virtually. This was difficult as I’m a very visual person and like to ask questions – which can be easier for me to do in person. Working from home also meant that it was almost impossible to build the face-to-face relationships and trust I craved with my colleagues. Although it was hard, I was diligent in learning, and I took a lot of notes which helped me along the way.
By the time we shifted to a hybrid schedule, I was going through some personal struggles, all of which directly affected my focus and performance at work. I was missing deadlines and doing less than awesome work. It was a rough time for me but, I’m so grateful to have such a patient and caring team who helped me get back on track.
Leaning into Work Relationships 💗
A huge part of me being able to overcome personal obstacles was leaning into relationships with my colleagues. I remember talking to Megan in her office and freely letting out my emotions. This of course, answered a lot of questions as to why I wasn’t performing as well as I once had at work. It’s how I learned that through communication, comes consciousness.
“I’m drowning and I need help.”
I didn’t want anyone to know what I was going through but when I finally accepted the fact that I was overwhelmed with life, everything slowly became easier and easier. Once I started feeling like myself, I understood how to help myself before things got bad (again). Opening up to my team has made the biggest difference in my career. We all have stress and challenges in our lives and the best we can do as humans is to be honest in the vulnerability. “I need help,” is no longer something I need to be embarrassed or worry about and instead, is a freeing statement.
Success & Confidence 😎
I can proudly say that in a few weeks, it will be my 5-year anniversary with DMA Solutions and I am so proud of this milestone! It’s truly amazing to think back on just how much I’ve evolved both personally and professionally over the last five years.
The positive flip in my personal life has reflected the brightest light into my work life at DMA. I feel this especially in my role as a manager of social media. Things click and my confidence in my work is evident with those I work with and moreover, I believe in myself.
I’m a big believer in the alignment of the mind, body and soul and right now is the most aligned I have ever felt. Opening up my heart to my team has changed everything for the better. I rarely worry about work because I am trusted and more importantly, I trust myself.
Looking back, the challenges I faced weren’t roadblocks at all – they were steppingstones to growth. By being vulnerable in the tough moments, setting boundaries, and prioritizing my well-being, I not only overcame a life burnout but also found a renewed sense of confidence and success in my work.
Today, I approach my career with clarity, purpose, and a stronger belief in my abilities. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that resilience isn’t about not struggling. It’s about rising up each time the struggle is real.
