Executive Assistants are often a powerful but quiet force keeping things running smoothly. You anticipate needs, proactively solve problems and are the go-to person for queries, questions and support. You manage high workloads, frequently change direction and juggle multiple items, allowing your Executive(s) to focus on business-critical items. High expectations are placed on EA’s by others and by themselves and it is easy to push past your limits and let exhaustion set in before you realise it.
Burnout isn’t an overnight thing. It gradually builds. Burnout is fed by long hours, constant pressure and for many EA’s the feeling you must be constantly ‘on’ or ‘available’. Burnout is sometimes hard to spot initially, especially in high performing EA’s who are used to pushing through challenges and delivering no matter what. For these EA’s, extra care is needed as suddenly the skills that makes you exceptional may make you vulnerable instead.
Recognising the signs
The first step in preventing burnout is learning to spot its early warning signs, sometimes easier said than done! If you find yourself feeling consistently drained even after rest, struggling to focus, becoming irritable, or losing motivation for tasks you once enjoyed, these may be indicators you need to reset. Burnout is not about weakness, it’s a signal that your body and your mind need some care.
Building boundaries
Boundaries are one of the most effective tools in so much of what we do as Assistant’s and the same is true for burnout. They can however be hard to enforce. There is often a lot of pressure to be on call late at night, say yes to every request or take on extra tasks to help others. However, if you want to produce a sustainable performance you need clear lines between work and personal time. If possible, have an open conversation with your Executive about availability, expectations and priorities.
The power of recovery
This isn’t just pinning all your hopes on an annual holiday. There is no guarantee you will return completely reset. It is about building small, consistent habits into your day that allow you to re-charge daily and weekly. Small changes like a morning walk, lunch away from your desk, 10 minutes sat outside mid-afternoon, whatever works for you. These micro initiatives can make a significant difference. This may sound obvious but good sleep, regular exercise and a good diet are the foundations of resilience, certainly a mantra we live by in the EST10 office!
Staying connected
Being an Executive Assistant can be quite isolating, especially if you are working in a hybrid or remote capacity. Isolation can intensify feelings of burnout. An Assistants role is unique and not everyone truly understands the day-to-day pressures. If able, seek support through peer networks, online communities or professional organisations. It will remind you, you are not alone, and many are facing the same challenges!
Be proactive!
Burnout prevention is not just about reacting when things go wrong, or when you reach the end of your capacity. Proper prevention is proactively managing your energy and workload. Regularly review your priorities with your executive. Being open about your capacity helps you to invest in your growth and create a more sustainable rhythm. Looking after yourself is not only protecting your health but also safeguards your ability to perform at a high level.
In summary
We all love a challenge and high-performing Executive Assistants are no different! However, it is important to remember that thriving on a challenge is different to overextending yourself. Recognise the signs, put boundaries in place and start small daily habits. You will not only prevent burnout, but bring your very best to the role, now and in the future.
