Disconnected to Reconnect: How Taking Time Away Can Recharge Your Life

Have you ever felt like the constant buzz of notifications and endless to-do lists were running your life? As healthcare professionals, being “on” all the time is second nature—answering calls, managing crises, and juggling patient care. It’s exhausting.

I felt it too. That’s why I decided to fully disconnect for two nights at a rural cabin. No Wi-Fi, no emails, no distractions. Instead, I focused on simple joys—playing games, reading, skiing, and relaxing on the couch.

It was exactly what I needed.


Why Disconnecting Matters

For healthcare workers (or an entrepreneur like myself), being “on” 24/7 can feel unavoidable. Even on days off, the mental load doesn’t go away. Constant connection—to work, family, and even social media—can drain your energy, leaving little room for you.

When you disconnect, you allow your mind and body to rest. It’s in the quiet that you can process, reflect, and recalibrate. And stepping away from the noise often reminds you of what really matters: your well-being and sense of purpose.


What I Gained From Two Days Away

At the cabin, I gave myself permission to simply be. Without the constant pull of notifications or emails, I reconnected with myself—and with Scott (and Max, I guess– lol).

It felt strange at first, like I should be “doing” something productive. But the longer I stayed disconnected, the more I noticed how much lighter I felt. My thoughts became clearer, and my energy lifted.

When I came back, I felt refreshed and ready to take on life and work with a renewed sense of clarity.


How You Can Disconnect—Even If It’s Just for a Day

You don’t need a rural cabin to experience the benefits of unplugging. Here are a few simple ways to create your own moment of disconnection:

  • Plan a No-Tech Day: Turn off your devices, set your phone to “Do Not Disturb,” and let people know you’re unavailable.
  • Spend Time Outdoors: Go for a XC ski, take a walk, or enjoy a park—leave your phone behind or in airplane mode.
  • Create a Mini Retreat: Dedicate a few hours or a day to reading, meditating, or relaxing at home.
  • Set Boundaries for Work: Avoid checking emails or work messages on your days off.

Your Next Step

What’s one way you could unplug this week? Maybe it’s leaving your phone in another room, taking a walk after a shift, or planning a short getaway.

Disconnecting is just one way to embrace the slower pace of winter. For some, it might mean finding more rest, and for others, it could be about discovering small joys in the season’s quiet moments.

If you’re ready to explore what “wintering well” could look like for you, join me for my Wintering Well Workshop on January 28. Together, we’ll discover personalized ways to embrace the season, recharge, and make the most of winter’s quiet moments—whether that’s disconnecting, slowing down, or something else entirely.

This winter can be a season of renewal. Let’s find what works best for you.


Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

How to Create the Holiday Experience You Actually Want

What if you could decide RIGHT NOW how you want to feel this holiday season?

Not how you think you should feel or how you’ve always felt in the past—but exactly how YOU want to feel.

For healthcare workers, the holidays can feel like a blur. Long shifts, missed family gatherings, and the weight of taking care of everyone else can leave you feeling drained before you’ve even started. Add in the pressure to make everything perfect at home, and it’s no wonder the holiday spirit feels out of reach.

But here’s the truth: those holiday feelings we’re chasing—whether it’s joy, connection, or calm—don’t just happen by chance. We create them.

That means you have the power to create the exact holiday experience you want this year—even if you’re juggling shifts or navigating a packed schedule. Here’s how:

Step 1: Decide How You Want to Feel

Take a moment to think about the feeling you want to create this holiday season. Forget about the to-do list or the expectations. Close your eyes and imagine:

✨ Do you want to feel calm and cozy?
✨ Excited and joyful?
✨ Connected and full of love?

It might help to picture yourself at the end of the holiday season. How do you want to look back and feel about the time you spent? Be specific. Choosing the feeling you want is the first step to making it happen.

Step 2: Focus on What Creates That Feeling

Now that you know how you want to feel, it’s time to take action. The key here is to focus on what creates that feeling for YOU—not what Instagram says or what your family expects.

Here are some examples:

  • Calm and Cozy: Slow things down when you’re off the clock. Say no to commitments that feel more like obligations. Light a candle, grab your favorite blanket, and watch that holiday movie you love. Let it be simple.
  • Excited and Joyful: Crank up the holiday music and dance around your kitchen after a long shift. Plan something fun just for YOU—like a morning walk to see holiday lights or a drive-through coffee treat before work. Joy often comes from the little things we let ourselves enjoy.
  • Connected and Full of Love: Reach out to people who matter to you in small but meaningful ways. Write a quick note to someone you haven’t spoken to in a while or plan a video call with loved ones if you’re working during the holidays. It’s about small, intentional moments.

The magic happens when you intentionally align your actions with the feeling you want to create.

Step 3: Shift Your Focus When You Get Off Track

Even with the best intentions, the holidays can throw curveballs. A patient crisis, family drama, or your own perfectionism might try to derail your good vibes.

This is where your focus becomes your superpower. Instead of spiraling into frustration, gently ask yourself: “What can I focus on right now to create [insert your feeling]?”

For example:

  • If a coworker’s attitude frustrates you during your shift, refocus on gratitude for the opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
  • If family drama threatens your peace, remind yourself of the joy you can create in the small moments—like sharing a laugh with your kids or savoring a quiet cup of tea.
  • If the holiday chaos feels overwhelming, ask, “What’s one thing I can do right now to feel calm?”

Redirecting your focus is like resetting the holiday playlist in your mind. You can’t control everything, but you CAN control where your attention goes.

Step 4: Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy

So often, we hold ourselves back from enjoying the holidays because we feel like we haven’t done enough. Maybe you didn’t bake those cookies from scratch or finish every gift perfectly wrapped. But the holidays aren’t a test.

Give yourself permission to soak up the moments that matter. Let go of what doesn’t. 

Remember, you’re not chasing perfection—you’re choosing presence.

For nurses and healthcare workers, this might mean embracing unconventional celebrations. Maybe your family’s holiday dinner is takeout on your lunch break—and that’s okay. Joy doesn’t come from the details; it comes from the intention.

What Will Your Holiday Feel Like?

This holiday season doesn’t have to be like every other year. You don’t have to wait for the perfect circumstances to feel the way you want to feel.

You can decide, right now, what you want to feel—and create that feeling on demand. By focusing on what matters, choosing intentional actions, and giving yourself permission to enjoy, you can design a holiday that feels like magic.

So, what feeling do YOU want to create this holiday season?

Let’s Make It Happen

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start, let’s talk. Coaching can help you figure out exactly how to create the holiday experience you’ve been dreaming of—without the stress or overwhelm.

Book a complimentary consultation today, and let’s design the life you love, one intentional step at a time.

Don’t let another holiday pass you by. Let’s create something extraordinary together—starting now.


As part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. 

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me.

Unwrap the Magic of Getting Exactly What You Want This Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and for healthcare professionals, that often means juggling shift swaps, holiday potlucks, and endless demands—not to mention the emotional load of giving our patients the best care during a time we’d love to spend with our own families.

In the middle of all this, we dream about the perfect holiday. Whether it’s the right gift under the tree or a family gathering that feels like a Hallmark movie, we have these expectations that often go unmet. Let’s change that this year.

Here’s how you can unwrap the magic of getting exactly what you want this holiday season—without the frustration or disappointment.


Problem #1: Expecting People to Read Your Mind

It starts with gifts. Have you ever caught yourself thinking, If they really loved me, they’d know what to get me? Or maybe, How hard is it to pick something thoughtful?

But here’s the truth: people aren’t mind readers.

Take my husband, Scott. Early in our marriage, he gave me a grill for one occasion and a lawnmower for another—our anniversary and Christmas, maybe? I don’t even remember. What I do remember is how excited I was. I love practical gifts. Sure, I wouldn’t say no to diamonds, but a grill or lawnmower? Perfect.

Now, I know not everyone would feel this way. That’s the thing about gifts—they’re deeply personal. And if you’re relying on someone to guess your version of the “perfect” present without telling them, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

Here’s the fix:

  • Decide if you want to be happy or surprised. If you want to be happy, tell them exactly what you’d love.
  • If you’d rather be surprised, let go of any expectations and enjoy the gesture for what it is.

It’s not just about the gift itself—it’s about setting yourself up for joy, no matter what’s inside the wrapping paper.


Problem #2: “Humans Gonna Human”

The holidays aren’t just about gifts—they’re about people. And let’s be honest, people can be… people.

Your sister might drink too much. Your mom might make everything about her. Your brother-in-law might talk too loudly, or the kids might run around like they’ve had six candy canes too many.

Here’s the thing: expecting people to suddenly behave differently because it’s the holidays is like expecting a hospital to be calm and quiet during flu season. It’s just not going to happen.

Instead, ask yourself: What would it look like to accept them as they are?

For example, maybe your mother’s self-centeredness is predictable. Instead of trying to make her see the bigger picture, you could let her comments roll off your back and focus on what makes youfeel good. Maybe your kids running wild isn’t the disaster you think it is—it’s just kids being kids.

When you release your expectations, you free yourself from unnecessary frustration.


Focus on What You Can Control

Here’s a game-changing idea: instead of pouring all your energy into managing everyone else’s experience, turn that energy inward. What would make the holiday magical for you?

Maybe it’s sitting by the fire with a cup of tea while the chaos unfolds around you. Maybe it’s going for a walk after a shift to clear your mind.

When you prioritize your own joy, a funny thing happens—the people around you feel it, too.


How to Get Exactly What You Want

Here’s a simple plan to make this holiday season your best yet:

  1. Communicate clearly what you want. Whether it’s a gift or a holiday plan, don’t leave room for misinterpretation.
  2. Let people be themselves. Adjust your expectations instead of trying to change them.
  3. Focus on your own joy. Ask yourself: What can I do to make this season special for me?

And here’s the magic: when you do this, you’ll feel happier, calmer, and more present—and that’s the real gift of the season.


Ready for a Happier Holiday?

If you’re tired of holiday stress and ready to create a life you love year-round, let’s talk. Book a complimentary consultation here.

And don’t miss my next free monthly masterclass (the last one this year!!) on 12/11/24: How to Abstain, where we’ll explore how to stop “overing” —over eating, over drinking, over scrolling—just in time for the holiday. Reserve your spot here.


Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

3 Surprising Myths About Boundaries (and What They Really Mean for Your Relationships)

When we hear the word “boundaries,” it’s common to think of drawing a line, creating distance, or saying “no.” But true boundaries are so much more than limits—they’re about clarity, respect, and ultimately, connection. And yet, there are still many myths that keep people from setting healthy boundaries in their lives. Let’s clear up a few:

Myth #1: Boundaries Push People Away  

One of the biggest misunderstandings around boundaries is that they’re meant to keep people at arm’s length. But boundaries aren’t about building walls; they’re about setting guidelines that let others know where you stand. Clear boundaries allow you to show up authentically, which actually brings you *closer* to others by promoting trust and mutual respect.

Myth #2: Boundaries Are Rigid and Unchangeable  

Setting a boundary isn’t about locking yourself into one rule for life. Boundaries can evolve as you grow and as your relationships shift. The key is to set boundaries that feel right for *you* and adjust as needed. Think of them as guidelines rather than unbreakable rules.

Myth #3: Only Big Problems Require Boundaries  

Many people think boundaries are only necessary when there’s a major issue. But boundaries are powerful in our everyday interactions, too. They help us protect our time, energy, and well-being, whether it’s committing to 15 minutes of downtime or setting limits on work-related messages after hours. Even small boundaries can have a big impact on our mental and emotional health.

Ready to Start Setting Boundaries that Work?

Join me for my All About Boundaries Masterclass tomorrow at 11 AM MT via Zoom. We’ll break down the steps to create boundaries that feel true to you and explore how to honor them even when it’s tough. Can’t make it live? No worries—replays will be sent out to everyone who registers. [Link to register]

It’s time to leave the myths behind and start setting boundaries that help you thrive.

I look forward to seeing you there!


Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions.

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Setting Boundaries that Stick: Practical Tips for Healthcare Professionals


Healthcare is all about giving. You’re there for your patients, your team, and sometimes even strangers when they need it most. But who’s there for you when feel you stretched thin?

It’s easy to feel like you’re supposed to be constantly available. Taking on extra shifts, answering emails after hours, and saying “yes” to last-minute favors have almost become badges of honor. But what if it’s costing you more than you think?

The Challenge of Boundaries in Healthcare
Have you ever had that feeling when you’re finally off the clock, but your phone just won’t stay silent? Or maybe you’re exhausted from a long week, and yet you’re signing up for extra shifts because it feels wrong not to help out.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In healthcare, these kinds of demands are often unspoken expectations. But without boundaries, burnout isn’t far behind. And let’s be honest: burnt-out you isn’t the best version of you—for your patients or for your own life and family.

Shifting Your Mindset on Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re a way to decide what’s truly important to focus on and let go of what isn’t, so you can keep giving sustainably. When you know where your limits are, you can serve at your best without running dry.

How to Set and Keep Your Boundaries

  1. Start with Small, Clear No’s
    Saying “no” doesn’t have to be dramatic. Start with small boundaries, like declining non-urgent calls after hours or setting a cutoff time for work emails. You can keep it simple and professional: “I won’t be able to respond to non-urgent requests after 7 PM.”
  2. Use Your Schedule as a Boundary Tool
    Your schedule is one of your most powerful boundary allies. Block off personal time on your calendar—yes, even if you have to make it a meeting with yourself! Prioritizing that time is a way to recharge so you can come back to work focused and energized.
  3. Communicate Openly and Often
    Talk to your team, your supervisor, or anyone who might expect your availability. Being clear about your boundaries (and reinforcing them when needed) helps others respect your time. Remember, setting a boundary once isn’t enough; reinforcing it regularly builds respect and understanding.
  4. Let Go of Guilt
    You can be compassionate without sacrificing yourself. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re not committed; it means you’re committed to showing up as your best self. This mindset is essential for long-term success in healthcare.

The Difference Boundaries Can Make
Imagine finishing your shift and actually being able to leave work at work. Or starting your day feeling rested instead of running on fumes. Boundaries help you build a sustainable career, showing up for your patients and colleagues fully engaged and present.

Closing
Boundary-setting is a skill, and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. If you’re curious about taking this further, I’m hosting a free webinar on boundary-setting specifically for healthcare professionals, where we’ll dive deeper into strategies and answer your questions. You can also book a complimentary consultation to explore coaching support that helps you set boundaries and regain balance in your life.


What’s one small boundary you’ve set (or would like to set) that’s helped you feel more balanced at work or home?


Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

A True Story About Communication

I wanted to share a moment with you that taught me a huge lesson about staying calm in difficult situations.

One time, I had two direct reports who left work early. They had finished their productive work for the day and just…left. The problem? They were still required to work 40 hours a week, and their early exit was not okay.

My first reaction was immediate anger. My heart was pounding; my mind raced with questions like, “How could they just leave like that?” and “What were they thinking?” I could feel my frustration rising as I prepared to confront them.

But as a coach, I now know to do something I wish I had learned sooner— to pause. Instead of charging into that conversation with anger, to take a beat and give myself a moment to think before reacting.

Pausing would have given me the space to shift from defensiveness to curiosity. Instead of assuming they didn’t care or weren’t taking their jobs seriously, I wondered, “What was their reasoning?” or “Was there something going on that I didn’t know about?”

This curiosity could help me approach the conversation much calmer. I could say, “I noticed you left work early today,” and have a productive discussion that leads to more understanding—and a clearer plan moving forward.

How to Stay Calm When You’re Angry

We’ve all been in situations where our first instinct is to react emotionally. Whether at work with your team or home with loved ones, your emotions can take over before you’ve had time to think. And when that happens, conversations can spiral into frustration, defensiveness, and conflict.

But staying calm is possible, even when your initial reaction is anger.

Here’s a little trick that has worked wonders for me: When you feel the heat rising, pause and take a beat. This gives you enough time to gather your thoughts and prevent your emotions from dictating your reaction. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in the heat of the moment.

When you give yourself that brief pause, you create space to shift from judgment to curiosity. Instead of jumping to conclusions or making assumptions, you can ask questions that lead to understanding, opening the door to a meaningful, productive conversation rather than an argument.

This small change in approach can prevent so much conflict—and build trust and collaboration instead.

Practice Makes Progress

Like any skill, staying calm and leading with curiosity takes practice. But the more you do it, the more natural it becomes. Over time, your conversations become less stressful and more productive.

If this approach sounds like something you’d like to explore more, I’ll cover it in my Collaborative Communication Masterclass. It’s a great opportunity to learn actionable strategies to stay calm in challenging situations and improve your conversations. I will help you apply these strategies in your daily life, making your day more productive and your relationships better. 


Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Breaking Down Defensive Walls: The Key to Better Conversations

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare communication is defensiveness. You’ve likely experienced it yourself—someone makes a comment, and before you even think about it, you feel the need to defend your actions. This is especially common in high-pressure environments like hospitals, where emotions can run high, and time is limited.

But here’s the thing: defensiveness shuts down conversations.

Instead of connecting and solving problems, it creates walls that are hard to break through. So, how can you dismantle those walls and create a space where real conversations can happen?

Problem: Why Defensiveness Takes Over

Defensiveness often kicks in when we feel misunderstood or criticized. Our brain goes into protection mode, making it hard to hear the other person’s perspective. And in healthcare, where every decision feels important, this reaction is even stronger.

But defensiveness doesn’t just hurt the conversation; it blocks the chance for true collaboration.

Solution: Focus on Empathy and Curiosity

To break through defensiveness, try leading with empathy and curiosity. Here’s how:

  • Start by acknowledging their emotions: Statements like, “I can see why you might feel frustrated,” show the other person that you recognize their experience. This lowers their defenses and opens the door for a more constructive conversation.
  • Ask questions rather than making assumptions: Instead of assuming why something went wrong, ask about their thought process. Try, “What was going on for you in that moment?” or “How do you think we can avoid this next time?” This invites a collaborative mindset, allowing both sides to work together toward a solution.

Results: Building Trust and Reducing Conflict

When you approach conversations with empathy and curiosity, you not only avoid triggering defensiveness but also build trust. People feel heard and understood, which leads to more openness, cooperation, and problem-solving.

By practicing these techniques, you can make conversations in healthcare less about defending positions and more about working together to find solutions.


Want to go deeper? My Collaborative Communication masterclass will give you practical tools to use empathy and curiosity effectively, helping you improve communication at work and home. You can register here.

If you’re a Logan Health employee, remember you have access to a free coaching with me as part of your benefits! (BTW, it’s completely confidential. I don’t share who I work with, what role coaching clients are in, what department they work in, etc.) Let’s work together to strengthen your communication skills and reduce stress in your professional life. You can book a coaching session here

How to Turn Tension into Collaboration with Three Simple Shifts

Have you ever walked into a conversation already expecting tension? Whether it’s a challenging patient, a frustrated colleague, or a demanding supervisor, those moments can feel heavy and stressful before the first word is even spoken. But what if you could turn that tension into an opportunity for collaboration instead?

The problem is, we often get stuck in a defensive mindset. We’re ready to protect our point of view or respond to criticism. This only heightens the tension and prevents meaningful communication.

But there’s a way to shift the dynamic and get better results.

Shift 1: Take a Neutral Stance

When we approach conversations with an agenda or strong opinions, we unknowingly create resistance. Instead, try to stay neutral—focus on the facts, not feelings. For example, rather than starting with, “You always forget to update the chart,” you could say, “I noticed the chart wasn’t updated after your shift.” This reduces blame and keeps the conversation focused on solving the problem.

Shift 2: Ask Open-Ended Questions

People feel more valued when they’re given the chance to share their perspective. Instead of assuming you know why someone acted a certain way, ask them to explain. Questions like, “Can you help me understand what happened here?” or “What do you think might work better next time?” foster collaboration rather than confrontation.

Shift 3: Look for Solutions, Not Faults

In moments of stress, it’s easy to focus on what went wrong. But what if you focused on what could go right? By shifting your energy from finding fault to finding solutions, you open up a space where everyone can contribute ideas. You might say, “Let’s figure out how we can make this work better moving forward,” inviting a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

These simple shifts can transform tense situations into opportunities for better teamwork, understanding, and productivity.

Want more strategies like these? Join my upcoming masterclass on Collaborative Communication, where we’ll dive into the exact steps to master neutral, solution-oriented conversations in your healthcare role. Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 11 AM MT. Replays will be available. You can sign up here.

Don’t forget—if you work at Logan Health, you can schedule a coaching session as part of your employee benefits! Let’s chat about how we can reduce tension and build stronger communication skills together. You can book a coaching session here.

When Conversations Fall Apart

Ever notice how quickly a conversation can fall apart, whether it’s with a colleague, patient, or your team? You start with the best intentions, but suddenly the other person shuts down, leaving you frustrated and stuck.

These breakdowns happen when we focus on what someone did “wrong” rather than trying to understand their perspective. This often leads to defensiveness, miscommunication, and missed opportunities for collaboration.

But there’s a better way.

Collaborative communication shifts the focus from judgment to curiosity, allowing for open, productive conversations where everyone feels heard and respected. 

Here’s how to start:

  1. Manage your emotions. Before engaging, check in with yourself. If you’re frustrated or angry, take a moment to calm down. Deep breaths or a brief pause can make a huge difference in setting a positive tone.
  2. State what you see objectively. Stick to the facts. Instead of saying, “You never finish things on time,” try, “I noticed the project wasn’t completed by the deadline.” This avoids blame and keeps the conversation neutral.
  3. Validate their experience. Show the other person that you understand their feelings. Use phrases like, “I get how this situation could have been frustrating for you.” When people feel understood, they’re more likely to open up and collaborate.

By following these three steps, you create a safe, respectful environment that fosters honest conversation and problem-solving. Want to take it further? Join my masterclass on Collaborative Communication, where we’ll dive deeper into the full process and explore ways to apply these skills in your workplace and at home. Registration is required and you can do so here.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get coaching sessions at no cost to them. You can book a coaching session here


P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Four Types of Burnout: How to Spot Them and What to Do

Let’s be honest—burnout in healthcare is real. And it doesn’t show up the same way for everyone. Whether you’re caring for patients or managing a team, the daily grind can leave you feeling exhausted, stressed, and wondering if you’ve got anything left to give. The good news is—you’re not alone, and there’s a way through it.

Let’s talk about the four types of burnout that healthcare providers often face, how to spot them, and what you can do to start feeling better.

Emotional Burnout

What It Looks Like:
You know that feeling when you’re on your way to work and you’re already emotionally drained? That’s emotional burnout. Frustration is simmering just beneath the surface, and connecting with your patients or coworkers feels like a huge effort.

How to Spot It:

  • You’re emotionally exhausted before your shift even starts.
  • You’ve hit a wall when it comes to showing empathy.
  • You feel frustrated or irritated more often than not.

What to Do About It:
Take care of you first. Set some boundaries around how much you’re giving at work, and make sure you’re spending time on things that recharge your emotional tank, whether that’s journaling or even a quick walk outside.


Physical Burnout

What It Looks Like:
Ever feel like no amount of sleep is enough? Or that your body’s constantly aching, even when you haven’t done anything strenuous? Physical burnout is your body’s way of telling you it needs a break—and fast.

How to Spot It:

  • You’re always tired, no matter how much rest you get.
  • You’re catching every cold or bug going around.
  • Your body just feels… worn out.

What to Do About It:
Let’s start with the basics—sleep, hydration, water, and movement. I know it’s easier said than done, but your body needs it. Take mini breaks throughout the day, even if it’s just a few minutes to breathe or stretch. And when you’re off the clock, make time for low-impact activities that help you recharge physically.


Mental Burnout

What It Looks Like:
When you’ve been juggling a million decisions, and suddenly, your brain feels like it’s on strike. Mental burnout shows up as difficulty focusing, forgetfulness, and feeling like even small decisions are overwhelming.

How to Spot It:

  • You can’t concentrate, or you feel mentally foggy all the time.
  • You’re struggling to make even simple decisions.
  • You feel scattered and disorganized.

What to Do About It:
Slow down and take things one step at a time. Break up your tasks into smaller chunks and establish priorities. Writing things down can help clear your mental clutter and bring some clarity. And if you need to, give yourself time to pause.


Compassion Fatigue

What It Looks Like:
This one hits close to home for a lot of us in healthcare. Compassion fatigue is when you’ve given and given, and there’s just nothing left. You still care about your patients or your team, but showing that empathy feels almost impossible.

How to Spot It:

  • You feel detached or emotionally distant from those you’re helping.
  • Helping others no longer feels fulfilling.
  • You’re emotionally numb, like you’re running on empty.

What to Do About It:
Take time to reconnect with why you got into healthcare in the first place. Lean on your team for support when you need it, and don’t be afraid to step away emotionally when a situation is too draining. You can’t pour from an empty cup, so give yourself the space to refill it.


Moving Forward: Burnout Isn’t Permanent

Here’s the thing—burnout, in any of its forms, doesn’t have to be permanent. You can feel better. The first step is recognizing what type of burnout you’re experiencing and then taking small steps toward recovery. Remember, you don’t have to do this alone.

I specialize in helping people like you find balance, manage stress, and rebuild confidence. If you’re feeling burned out, let’s chat. You can book a complimentary, no-obligation consultation here.

Logan Health employees receive complimentary coaching, and I’d love to support you in getting back to a place where you feel energized and fulfilled at work and in life.

Take a small step today. Let’s work together to beat burnout and bring more balance back into your life.