What’s the best way to avoid burnout?

Avoiding burnout is crucial, especially when you're paving your own path outside the corporate mold. Having experienced it myself, here’s what I'd suggest based on personal learnings and helping others transition.

1. Redefine Success: First, take a step back and redefine what success looks like for you. Without the corporate metrics of promotions or titles, focus on fulfillment, creativity, and impact. This reframe helps set healthier goals and expectations.

2. Intentional Scheduling: Use your calendar as a tool to protect your time. As freelancers or entrepreneurs, our work can easily expand to fill all hours. Schedule "white space" for thinking, creative exploration, and, yes, rest. You’ll find this balance supports sustained productivity.

3. Capture, Develop, Expose: Apply this framework to manage your projects. When you have a backlog of ideas (Capture), you’ll always have a well to draw from. Develop them at a sustainable pace rather than working on everything at once. Exposing them to the world is a moment to celebrate progress rather than a relentless push for perfection.

4. Build Systems: Establish processes that work for you. Automate or delegate tasks whenever possible. Think of systems as your invisible support crew that allows you to focus on what only you can do.

5. Nourish Your Energy: Take care of your mental and physical health. Regular exercise, meditation, and hobbies outside work are non-negotiable. Think of these activities as investments in your productivity and creativity.

6. Seek Community: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals. Whether it’s an accountability partner, a mentor, or a supportive network, having someone to share the highs and lows with can be grounding.

When I felt burnout creeping in during my transition, tuning into these aspects provided more than just relief—they became the foundation for a more meaningful, sustainable career. Remember, it's a marathon, not a sprint. Be kind to yourself along the journey.