How These Boss-Ladies
Avoid Burnout Is there really such a thing as work-life balance?
W
e experienced quite the media mania a couple of months ago when the World Health Organisation officially recognised burnout as a legitimate occupational phenomenon. It’s increasingly difficult to switch off in the ever-connected digital age, and yet, we continue to strive towards achieving the elusive work-life-balance we all dream of. We chatted to some of the most successful, driven, and all-round kick-ass women we know in this industry, to find out what they do to juggle their careers, wind down, and avoid burnout – or whether it’s even possible to really separate business from pleasure.
Maxine Horne – Artisan Clinics Each person is individual, and you need to find what works for you and stick to it. Personally, I go to the gym every morning at 5.30am and I have a personal trainer to keep me accountable. I’ve learnt over the years that I can fall into the trap of putting everything and everybody else before myself. I find that if my body is fit and strong, that my mind is too. Plus, any exercise sends off a whole heap of endorphins, and what a way to start the day.
Kristie Milgate – Dermalogica I like to kick start my day with a morning gym session at my local gym. This helps to clear my mind and build my energy levels to face whatever comes my way during that day. As I have a 3 year-old, I make time with her each night (usually after her dinner) to have one-on-one play time; this brings the inner child out in me again and helps to lighten an often hectic working day. I open all my emails only once and respond as promptly as possible and I allow myself to stay flexible to ensure I continue to re-prioritise as needed. I meet with my executive team on a regular basis, as a group and also one-on-one. I provide them with my counsel but they’re entrusted with autonomy, accountability and ownership which helps build the required creativity and flexibility to build our business here in Australia. I strive for balance with my family, friends and the Dermalogica business and so I am conscious to remain flexible and adaptable in planning ahead to priorities and focus on what needs to be at that time.
Robyn McAlpine – Skintifix I love putting on my hiking boots and hitting the mountains. The combination of trees, fresh air and having to keep your mind on each uneven step you take doesn’t leave much room for worrying about work deadlines and business stress. I know when I’m feeling overwhelmed by it all that it’s time to find something tall to climb just to see what the view will reveal! 32 | SPA+CLINIC