5 Ways to Overcome Burnout and Find Joy in Your Career
- Rydhel Ikouara
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
Burnout is more common than ever, especially in fast paced work environments. But the good news is, it’s manageable and even preventable. Here are five ways to overcome burnout and rediscover joy in your career:
Set Clear Boundaries: Define your work hours and stick to them. Turn off notifications after work to truly disconnect.
Prioritise Self Care: Invest time in activities that rejuvenate you, exercise, hobbies, or simply spending time with loved ones.
Break Tasks into Smaller Steps: Avoid overwhelm by breaking big projects into manageable tasks. Celebrate small wins.
Reconnect with Your Purpose: Reflect on why you started your career. Finding meaning in your work can rekindle passion.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to talk to a mentor, colleague, or coach for guidance and support.
Rediscovering joy in your career is a journey, but with the right mindset and actions, it’s entirely possible.
Finding Your Path: Navigating career uncertainty as a Single Mom
This is an interesting one, here's a story for you from one of my client:
"Hi Leon,
I am a 36 year old female living in London. I’m a single mom of 2 young girls. For the last 8 years I have bounced around from job to job with no real direction. I don’t have a traditional academic background, so I lack confidence when applying for new jobs, although I am qualified by experience. I do put a lot of emphasis on having no professional direction but my personal life is just as bad… "
It’s a story many people can relate to feeling stuck, bouncing from job to job and doubting yourself because you don’t have a “traditional” background. As a 36 year old single mom of two young girls, living in London, your days are already challenging enough. Balancing work, parenting, and your own aspirations feels overwhelming.
But here’s the truth: You are more capable and qualified than you think. And it’s never too late to find your path and build the career you deserve.
Why Your Experience Matters More Than You Think
Many people feel disqualified because they don’t have the “right” degree or the “perfect” CV. But employers today are increasingly valuing experience, skills, and resilience over formal qualifications. Think about the skills you’ve gained through years of work and raising your children:
Adaptability: Navigating various jobs shows you can adapt quickly and learn new skills.
Time Management: Being a single mom while working requires exceptional multitasking skills.
Problem Solving: Managing household responsibilities, finances, and a career demonstrates resourcefulness.
You are qualified by experience, and that’s a powerful asset.

GAINING CLARITY AND CONFIDENCE
It’s understandable to feel lost when you’ve been moving from job to job without direction. But clarity starts with self reflection and small, intentional steps. Here’s how to begin:
Define What Success Means to You: Forget what society expects and focus on what you truly want. Is it stability? Fulfilment? Financial growth? Identify your priorities.
Recognise Your Transferable Skills: Make a list of your skills, both professional and personal. Whether it’s communication, leadership, creativity, or empathy, these are strengths you can leverage.
Seek Guidance and Support: Consider working with a coach or mentor who can help you gain clarity and build confidence. Someone who understands your struggles and can guide you to unlock your potential.
Set Achievable Goals: Start small. If a complete career change feels overwhelming, focus on improving your current situation. Take online courses, network, or enhance your resume.
moving forward confidence
You may feel like your life has no professional direction, but the fact that you’re reflecting and seeking change is a powerful step forward. Remember, you are already qualified by experience. Now, it’s about embracing that truth and building on it.
You have the strength, resilience, and dedication to create a brighter future not just for yourself but for your children, too. Take it one step at a time.
If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out. As your coach, I’m here to help you discover your strengths, build your confidence, and find the direction you’ve been searching for.
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