Empathy Needs Purpose to Avoid Burnout

Empathy Can Be Too Much

Empathy can be too much, especially if you feel the pain of others and do nothing but wallow in it with them. Empathy with the correct perspective can be powerful and life-changing for everyone involved in the moment. Leadership provides many opportunities to practice empathy.

There is a fine line in this practice: if we are not careful, it can take us down an emotional rabbit hole that is difficult to climb out of; however, with intention, empathy can be impactful and rewarding for everyone.

The Reality of Messy Lives

People have messy lives. People experience the loss of family members, loved ones, children, divorces, addiction, and a host of other difficult life matters to deal with.

Most of us work in emotionally charged industries. I am usually really good at using rational compassion as a leader. I use perspective-taking to help those in need get the resources they need, without being overwhelmed by the immense pain in the situation. These strategies worked for me until recently.

A Difficult Season

The second half of last year was really difficult. My teams faced some unimaginable personal and professional losses this year – the ones you just have no words for. The ones you just cry with because there are no words.

I had to talk to one of my most trusted mentors about this. I found myself getting wrapped up in the feelings of loss and sadness, and I was struggling to determine how to get back to the job we are paid to do. I was letting things slide and taking on extra work that wasn’t mine because I didn’t know when the time was right to “go back to work.”

Honestly, I still don’t know if there is a right time, but I did realize that work is an important part of our employees' lives. Work is a place where they can escape the second-by-second thoughts about the loss they are experiencing.

Why I Care Deeply

I care deeply about my colleagues. Each one was chosen for our team because they are all humble, hungry, and kind. They bring unique qualities to our team, and I honestly love each one of them.

I realized, though, that my role is to understand their circumstances and let them know I am here and have resources that can help them in almost any situation. It is my honor to be with them in moments of deep sadness. I say that because people need to know they are not alone.

Returning to My Why

I go back to my ultimate why. Why do I do this leadership job? My why in life is to provide people with a great place to work. A place where they have security, certainty, autonomy, relatability, and fairness.

A place to escape from home and take the focus off themselves and onto others. A place to not only work, but work with a greater purpose, to be a Difference Maker. This is how I can give back to those who need stability, habit, and reliability.

Yes, empathy can be overwhelming. I found myself letting it overwhelm me for the first time. I have figured out how to lead in tough times and maintain my joy as a wife, mother, grandmother, and corporate leader.

We never stop learning.