In this special Sunday check-in, I dive into the often-overlooked topic of creator burnout and share my personal journey through it. If you've been feeling stuck or unmotivated, this episode is for you. Let’s explore how to reset our purpose, create with energy—not obligation, and reconnect with real people in our lives.
Thank you Margaret Williams,
, , , and many others for tuning into my live video! Join me for my next live video in the app.Introduction to Creator Burnout
Let’s talk about something that hits home for many of us—creator burnout. It’s that feeling of exhaustion that sneaks up on you when you’re pushing yourself to create, but the spark just isn’t there anymore. You know, when you log in to produce content, but all you feel is a weight on your shoulders instead of excitement? Yeah, that’s burnout knocking at the door. It can happen to anyone, even the most passionate creators.
Burnout often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. You might think you can power through it, but ignoring those signs can lead to a deeper sense of frustration and disconnection from your creative work. It’s crucial to recognize when you need a break, to step back, and to give yourself permission to pause. The world is full of distractions and pressures, and sometimes, we forget that taking a step back can lead to greater clarity and renewed energy.
Understanding the Need for a Break
Now, let’s dig into why taking a break isn’t just okay—it’s necessary. We live in a culture that glorifies hustle and constant productivity. But here’s the thing: we aren’t machines. We’re human beings with emotions, thoughts, and lives outside of our content creation. There’s a beauty in stepping back and reflecting on what truly matters. It’s about giving yourself the space to breathe, to recharge, and to reconnect with your core purpose.
When you feel that burnout creeping in, ask yourself: What’s the driving force behind my content? Am I creating because I want to, or because I feel I have to? Recognizing that difference is key. A break allows you to evaluate your motivations and realign with your passions.
Taking time off isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a powerful strategy for long-term success. It gives you the opportunity to reflect on your goals, to reconnect with why you started creating in the first place. So, if you find yourself feeling overwhelmed, remember that it’s perfectly okay to step back. Trust me, your creativity will thank you for it.
Tip #1: Reset Your Purpose
Okay, let’s get into the first tip: Reset Your Purpose. This is about taking a moment to pause and really think about why you’re creating content in the first place. What drives you? What makes you excited to hit that ‘record’ button? When was the last time you checked in with your creative purpose?
It’s easy to fall into a routine where you’re just going through the motions. You might feel pressured to keep producing content, but that can lead to a disconnect. So, let’s flip the script. Instead of asking, “What do I have to create?” ask yourself, “What do I get to create?” This small shift in language can make a huge difference in your mindset.
Next, take a broader view of your creative journey. Reflect on what you’ve accomplished and how it aligns with who you are today. Is your content serving a purpose? Are you educating, entertaining, or empathizing with your audience? Understanding the ‘why’ behind your content can reignite that passion.
Additionally, reconnect with past wins. Look back at the positive feedback and testimonials you’ve received. What have people said that made you feel proud? This can serve as a reminder of your impact and the value you bring to your audience. If you haven’t been collecting testimonials, it’s time to start! Use tools like Endorsal to gather and showcase the positive feedback you receive.
Finally, create a one-sentence mission statement for your content. This is your guiding light, your North Star. For example, “I create content to help [ideal audience] achieve [desired outcome].” This statement can help ground you and remind you of your purpose every time you create. It’s about clarity and focus, ensuring that your content aligns with your true intentions.
So, let’s embrace the idea of resetting our purpose. It’s about taking a step back to evaluate your motivations and ensuring that your content reflects who you are and what you believe in. Trust me, this reset can breathe new life into your creative journey.
Tip #2: Create with Energy, Not Obligation
Now, let’s dive into our second tip: create with energy, not obligation. This is a game changer. I remember a time when I felt I had to create just to meet expectations. I was pushing myself, feeling drained, and it showed in my work. But then I made a commitment to myself: I would only put out content when I felt energized and ready. It’s all about honoring your boundaries and recognizing when you're at your best.
How often do you find yourself doing things out of obligation? I used to do that all the time, especially in my 20s and 30s. I thought, “I committed to this, so I have to see it through.” But that mindset can lead to burnout. We must learn to give ourselves grace. If you’re feeling drained and the thought of creating content feels like a chore, it’s time to take a step back.
Let’s say you’re a career coach and the thought of answering another resume question makes you cringe. Instead of forcing it, pause. Breathe. No one will be harmed if you take a moment to recharge. Recognize that your energy matters. If you’re not passionate about a topic anymore, don’t force yourself to create content around it just because someone told you it’s profitable. Remember, your content should reflect your passions and interests.
Creating with energy means embracing what you love to do. If you’re not excited about a subject, it’s okay to pivot. I once received an invitation to speak at a relationship conference because people thought my marriage was exemplary. But just because it works for me doesn’t mean I can teach it. I almost skipped the event entirely because I wasn’t passionate about the topic. The moral? Don’t talk about what doesn’t resonate with you.
When you align your content with your true interests, it shines through. Your enthusiasm will attract the right audience and foster genuine connections. And when you’re energized, everything just flows. So, remember to monitor your energy levels. When are you at your best? For me, it’s early mornings—quiet and filled with creativity. Find your sweet spot and create during those peak times.
Another helpful tip is to keep it simple. If you can’t manage a lengthy podcast or video, why not create something short and impactful? Answer a quick question someone has asked you. This week, I recorded a brief video addressing a question about using Substack and GoHighLevel together. It was a quick, two-minute video, but it re-energized me. Small actions can lead to big bursts of creativity!
In summary, creating with energy means recognizing when you’re at your best, avoiding topics that drain you, and allowing yourself the freedom to produce content that excites you. Embrace the messiness and authenticity of your journey. It’s about connection, not perfection.
Tip #3: Reconnect with Real People
Now onto our third tip: reconnect with real people. In this digital age, it’s easy to lose touch with genuine human interactions. But real conversations can bring a renewed sense of purpose and energy to your creative journey. Live streams and interactive content are fantastic ways to foster that connection.
Conversational content isn’t just about lecturing or delivering pre-recorded messages. It’s about engaging with your audience in real-time, responding to comments, and making them feel valued. This builds a quicker trust and connection than any scripted presentation ever could.
For instance, I’ve made a conscious effort to get out of my comfort zone. Joining groups like The Dames has been a blessing. Surrounding myself with powerful, supportive women has rejuvenated my spirit. Meeting people in person, like visiting a friend’s new podcast studio, has reignited my passion for what I do.
Even small gestures, like spending time with family or friends, can have a profound impact on your creative energy. The simple act of sitting on my cleaned back porch and enjoying the fresh air can help me reset. It’s these little moments that recharge us and inspire our work.
Consider starting a “creator win” folder, where you save screenshots of positive feedback, inspiring messages, or anything that lifts your spirits. This can be your go-to resource when you need a boost. Surround yourself with things that make you smile—whether it’s scented candles, uplifting music, or good company. These investments in your happiness matter.
Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out to others. Ask how you can help them. Volunteering or participating in community events can shift your focus and bring fresh energy into your life. It’s all about creating meaningful connections that inspire both you and those around you.
Conclusion and Call to Action
As we wrap up, remember that taking the time to reset your purpose, create with energy, and reconnect with real people can transform your creative journey. If this reboot plan resonated with you, share it with a friend who might be feeling the same way. Bookmark this as a replay for those moments when you need a reminder of your worth and creativity.
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Thank you for joining me today! Let’s continue to support one another and create with intention. You’ve got this!
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