Understanding Burnout: Critical Considerations for Coaches

Burnout has reached unprecedented levels. In the U.S., Europe, and the United Kingdom, about 50% of all workers are on the brink of burnout, and for executives, it’s 70%. Inevitably, this means burnout is finding its way into the coaching space. Few coaching programs I’ve encountered teach about burnout, leaving coaches unprepared to manage their own self-care or support clients through burnout. Many coaches feel unequipped to work competently and confidently with their clients in exploring burnout prevention and recovery in an empathetic, supportive, and ethical way.

To create meaningful, sustainable results in coaching engagements, it’s essential to understand burnout from a personal and professional perspective. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of what burnout is, why coaches are particularly vulnerable to it, and how understanding and managing burnout helps us support our clients better.

Defining Burnout: What It Is and Why It Matters

Burnout is cyclical in nature, yet many people are unaware of their repeating patterns. Although burnout is traditionally associated with work and categorized by the World Health Organization as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress, it can occur in any setting where prolonged stress is a factor — from personal relationships to caregiving and, of course, in coaching.

The risk of burnout is high for coaches because the nature of our work involves holding space for others’ emotional needs, which can drain our energy if we don’t maintain proper boundaries.

Why Coaches Are Vulnerable to Burnout

Many qualities that make someone a great coach — empathy, dedication, and a commitment to helping others achieve their goals — are the same traits that can lead to burnout. Here are some common reasons why burnout happens: 

Emotional Load.

• Coaching requires deep emotional involvement, which can be exhausting.

High Expectations.

• Coaches may place too much pressure on themselves to ensure client success, leading to feelings of inadequacy.

Lack of Boundaries.

• Struggles with setting personal boundaries can lead to overwork.

Isolation.

• Many coaches work independently, lacking peer support systems or sufficient supervision for restoration.

Recognizing Burnout in Yourself as a Coach

The first step in preventing burnout is recognizing the early warning signs. Our bodies often give subtle signals when we’re out of balance, much like a car’s dashboard warning lights.  

Common signs include:

• Feeling drained before the day even starts.
• Irritability or frustration over minor issues.
• Emotional detachment from work or clients.
• Declining performance, such as forgetting key details or struggling to stay present.
• Physical symptoms like sleep problems or headaches.

Burnout not only affects your health but also impacts your ability to serve clients. Your clients may notice your disengagement, which could harm the coaching relationship.

Supporting Clients Who Are Facing Burnout

Just as important as recognizing and managing your own burnout is understanding how to support clients who may be experiencing it. Many clients come to coaching to find meaning in their work again, often because they have experienced overwhelming stress. Coaches play a crucial role in helping clients identify and address burnout before it becomes debilitating. 

Identify Root Causes

Burnout is often the result of deeper issues. By exploring the internal stressors as well as the external circumstances, coaches can help clients gain a better understanding of what’s driving their exhaustion or frustration.

Build Awareness

One of the most effective strategies for managing burnout is increasing self-awareness. Through coaching, clients can learn to recognize the early signs of burnout.

Re-Establish Boundaries

Many clients who experience burnout struggle with setting and maintaining boundaries. Coaching offers a structured way to help clients reassess their commitments, set realistic expectations, and say “no” where needed. 

Redefine Success

Burnout often stems from unrealistic or unsustainable definitions of success. Coaches can help clients redefine what success looks like, ensuring it’s aligned with their personal values and well-being.  

Preventing Burnout as a Coach

As coaches, it’s easy to overlook our own well-being amid client demands and everyday responsibilities. To prevent burnout, it’s essential to include yourself in the care you extend to others.

Top Tips: 

Set Clear Boundaries
Make sure you honor the time you set aside for your own rest and rejuvenation.

Engage in Peer Support
Connect with other coaches through supervision, peer groups, or professional networks such as the International Coaching Federation.

Schedule Downtime
Make time for activities that recharge you.

Spending Time in Nature
Being outside naturally reduces stress and prevents burnout.

In Summary

Burnout is a growing problem that affects both clients and coaches. By understanding burnout from all perspectives, we can preserve our own well-being as coaches, while also offering better support to clients. Recognizing signs and symptoms and knowing how to seek and refer clients for other professional support is critical.