Burnout: Could It Be a Door to Finding New Joy and New Beginnings?'

Surprised by the joy of it all.

Being impacted by significant burnout and turning 60 next year has given me a clear and confronting realisation that some health impacts aren’t reversible, and holding on too tightly to the old season can dim the light of what’s next possible. Now that I am in a new season of Spring, this awareness has landed most gently in the daily rituals that truly matter -like the walks I take with my granddaughter. Every morning, as we step into the world, I’m reminded that joy is both ordinary and extraordinary at once, and that simple moments can recalibrate a life. In the words of C.S. Lewis, I’ve been “surprised by joy.”

This New Chapter
When I reflect on the arc of my career and health, the turning point feels less like a dramatic pivot (which it certainly was) and now more like a compassionate recommitment to exploring my ultimate purpose. It isn’t about giving up (as much as I battle that thought in my head); it’s about choosing a wiser path that honours my legacy, protects my health, and prioritises what matters most. The presence of my granddaughter on those short morning strolls has been a powerful compass. Her gorgeous smile, laughter, excitement, wonder, and discoveries of new things push me to slow down, breathe, and notice the world again -especially noting the small details that I have too often rushed past in the busyness of leadership, my work, and day-to-day life.

My Health and Energy
My body doesn’t rebound the way it used to. My focus now isn’t more for the sake of more, but what sustains me for the long haul -so I can show up for the people I love and for the communities I’ve had the privilege to serve. That means honouring limits, prioritising sleep and rest, and choosing routines that restore rather than exhaust. Those walks with my granddaughter are a daily reminder that vitality isn’t a sprint; it’s a rhythm I must learn to keep. It’s in the pace of a slow, curious approach rather than the pressure to perform at every moment. If I am to continue as a leader further down the track (I’d like to think that I am still considered to be one), I want to model a version of leadership that is sustainable and strategic, recognising when to pause, recharge, pivot, and begin again with intention. As I have previously mentioned, burnout is not a badge of honour -it's a painful and confronting reality, an accumulation of warning signs I chose to ignore for far too long. They were a wake-up call and I’m grateful it didn’t end worse.

Relationships and Family
The quality of relationships -the people I love, my wife, children, friends, and now my granddaughter, grows more precious with time. My granddaughter’s daily presence is a bright thread weaving through my days. I am marvelling at her growing grasp of language and communication. Even before she talks, she asks questions about the world, loves our morning walk (and now the swings at the park). Now that she is crawling, it’s fascinating to see her developing a sense of self, space, world, and safety, each reminders that life’s deepest work happens in ordinary, shared moments.
 
Letting Go as a Strength
Letting go isn’t loss; it’s been a decision to move toward a healthier, more sustainable future. I’ve learned to release some familiar things that once defined me -particular projects and daily achievements, old assumptions from my never-ending to-do list, my fast pace and relentless “more is better” mindset. I am learning that each letting go isn’t a retreat but a conscious reallocation of energy toward stepping into this next chapter with intention -focusing on what truly nourishes my health, supports and empowers my family, and protects blocks of personal time and the 8 hours of sleep I need.

Have a Beginner’s Mind
The next 12 to 24 months feel like a fresh map being drawn. I’m identifying new skills and ongoing supports, staying open to meaningful possibilities, so I can contribute in ways that align with my core values and who I want to be both now and in the future. I love the concept of being a lifelong learner. Now, in many ways, I am starting all over again. It’s both daunting and exciting.

My Purpose and Core Values
Letting go isn’t abandoning purpose; rather, it has helped me clarify what’s most important to me. It’s reorienting purpose toward health, sustainable impact, and my core values of love, justice, compassion, and kindness. The walks with my granddaughter anchor this shift for me, reminding me that kindness toward others begins with care for myself, and that a leader’s best work may start in the smallest, simplest, and most intimate of moments. I’m going to explore this further in one of my next posts.
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What’s Your Safety Net?
If you’re experiencing burnout or other health concerns, seek medical guidance or mental-health support. You don’t have to navigate this alone. I’ve learned from my psychologist that asking for help is a sign of resilience and self-respect, not weakness.

If you’re navigating a similar turning point or simply want to talk through next steps, I’m happy to chat. DM me to connect, share resources, or discuss a practical path forward—today or down the road. You’re not alone, and there are steps you can take.
What small daily ritual helps you recalibrate and protect your wellbeing? I’m collecting ideas from peers who lead with heart.

If you’re navigating a major transition, I’d love to hear how you find moments of joy and renewal. DM me to connect.