NAVIGATING YEAR-END BURN OUT

As the year winds down, burnout can hit hard—especially for women in music managing year-end goals, industry pressures, and often carrying more than their share.

Signs It’s More Than Just Stress:

1. Exhaustion – Feeling tired even after rest.

2. Lost Passion – Work you once loved feels like a chore.

3. Irritability – Small things set you off easily.

4. Brain Fog – Difficulty focusing.

5. Physical Symptoms – Headaches, recurring colds, or fatigue.

Why We Feel It: Juggling home life responsibilities, proving ourselves daily, taking on more work to support others, and navigating industry hurdles—all of it can add up quickly. The weight is real.

Ways to Navigate Burnout (Without Guilt):

• Celebrate Your Wins: Reflect on what you’ve achieved this year, big and small. Your efforts matter.

• Set Boundaries and Stick to Them: Saying “no” to another gig, project, early morning meeting or late-night call is a form of self-respect, not selfishness.

• Prioritise Nourishment: Ask yourself—what are you fueling yourself with? Grabbing sugary snacks, overindulging in alcohol, or eating on the run won’t sustain you. Prioritising a nourishing, balanced diet can make all the difference in how you feel and function.

• Lean on Your Network: Connect with trusted colleagues, mentors, or other women in music. Asking for support is a sign of strength, not weakness.

• Disconnect Intentionally: Take a deliberate break from emails, social media, or step away from gigs. Real rest is what fuels resilience and strength.

To the amazing women reading this: We all feel it—the pressure to do more, give more, be more, do things quicker. But burning out isn’t the answer. I’ve been there too, working through endless nights and year-end chaos. Now, I know rest and boundaries aren’t just helpful—they’re essential acts of self-care.

Please take care of yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, my inbox is always open here. Don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to listen.

#burnout