Are You Leading at Full Capacity—Or Running on Empty?
Welcome to a new week! Last week, we focused on driving lasting change—how to inspire innovation, build adaptability, and create momentum that doesn’t fade. But what happens when leaders and teams push too hard without stopping to recharge? This week, we’re shifting gears to something just as critical: energy management, preventing burnout, and leading with sustainable momentum. Because leadership isn’t just about driving forward—it’s about knowing when to pause, recalibrate, and refuel. Let’s start today with a fundamental question: Are You Leading at Full Capacity—Or Running on Empty?
Robert L. Short
3/31/20252 min read
How to Manage Your Energy as a Leader Before Burnout Takes Over
A few years ago, I hit a leadership wall.
I was doing everything I thought I should—leading my team, handling challenges, driving results. But I was also exhausted. My motivation dipped. I felt like I was running on fumes.
The worst part? I didn’t even notice it happening. Burnout doesn’t show up all at once—it creeps in slowly. And as leaders, we’re often the last to admit we’re running on empty.
The reality is: If you don’t manage your energy, you can’t lead effectively. Your team doesn’t just need your effort—they need your clarity, presence, and resilience.
Signs You’re Leading on Empty
🚫 You’re always in “react mode.” You don’t have time to think strategically—you’re just putting out fires.
🚫 You struggle to focus. Tasks that used to be easy now feel mentally draining.
🚫 You’re running on caffeine, not rest. You’re exhausted, but you keep pushing instead of recharging.
🚫 You feel disconnected from your work. You’re doing the job, but you’ve lost the passion that once drove you.
🚫 You have no space to pause. Your calendar is packed, your to-do list is endless, and reflection time is nonexistent.
Sound familiar? If so, it’s time to rebuild your energy before burnout takes over.
How to Lead with Energy, Not Just Effort
✔ Prioritize Recovery Like You Prioritize Work
– High performers don’t just work hard—they recover hard. Block time for rest, thinking, and stepping away.
✔ Set “No Work” Boundaries
– If you’re always available, your energy never resets. Pick specific times when work is off-limits.
✔ Reduce Low-Value Tasks
– If everything feels urgent, nothing is strategic. Cut out unnecessary meetings, emails, and distractions.
✔ Refuel with What Energizes You
– Whether it’s exercise, reading, or time with family—protect the activities that give you energy.
✔ Lead by Example
– If you burn yourself out, your team will follow. Show them that sustainable leadership is about smart energy management, not just grinding harder.
Try This Today: The Energy Audit
Take 5 minutes to answer:
👉 What’s one habit that drains my energy every day?
👉 What’s one habit that gives me energy—but I’ve been neglecting?
👉 What’s one small change I can make this week to reset?
Even small shifts—like ending your workday 30 minutes earlier or taking an actual lunch break—can help rebuild your leadership energy.
Lead Forward by Leading Yourself First
You can’t pour from an empty cup. If you want to lead at your best, you need to protect your energy, not just spend it. Sustainable leadership isn’t about doing more—it’s about making sure you have the energy to do what matters most.
In Lead Forward!, I share the strategies that help leaders manage energy, avoid burnout, and lead with resilience.
Tomorrow, we’ll build on this by exploring how to protect your team’s energy—because if your people are burning out, your success won’t be sustainable. See you then!