Today's work environment can be demanding and highly competitive. The pace of life generally, is often exhausting and can easily lead to burnout.
Case study - Resilience in the boardroom
There was always something different about Alex, a brilliant CEO of a technology start-up in London. Undiagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia, Alex’s unique perspective fuelled his creativity and strategic thinking. But it also came with challenges with the endless meetings, constant pressure, and the relentless pace of the technology industry.
One day, after a gruelling board meeting, he collapsed in the office. Burnout had finally caught up! The weight of expectations, the sleepless nights, and the constant need to mask his neurodivergence had drained him.
Enter Wendy Macartney, a behavioural change specialist. Wendy completed an ADHD assessment and referred Alex for a dyslexia assessment. Alex was relieved to find he was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia. Wendy recognised the signs in Alex such as the exhaustion, the cynicism, the waning efficacy. She approached Alex with empathy, sharing her own journey and emphasising the need for self-compassion.
Simultaneously, Alex began seeing Wendy (evey two weeks) a psychologist who specialised in neurodiversity. She explained that neurodivergent individuals often expend extra energy trying to fit into neurotypical norms. Alex’s masking; pretending to be someone he wasn't is a prime example. Wendy encouraged Alex to embrace his authentic self, even in the boardroom.
Together, they devised a holistic plan:
Accepting his daignosis
Navigating the complexity with ADHD
Neurodiversity advocacy
Strategic rest
Leadership & transparency
As Alex implemented these strategies, his company transformed. Productivity increased, turnover decreased, and innovation flourished. His authenticity inspired others, and the company culture shifted toward empathy and understanding.
In the end, Alex’s burnout became a catalyst for change! He no longer masked his neurodivergence; instead, he celebrated it. The goal is to identify the early signs of burnout to ensure a quick recovery and to support you to burn bright again.