One of the recurring themes in our conversations with senior leaders is this: no matter how high someone climbs or how much they achieve, there’s often an undercurrent of exhaustion. The kind that isn’t about just needing a holiday—but a deeper fatigue that comes from years of constantly pushing, performing, and proving.
Overachievement, for many, starts as a badge of honour. But we’ve seen first-hand how, over time, it can quietly erode wellbeing, relationships, and joy.
What We Hear Behind Closed Doors
When we speak with executives and high-performing professionals, there’s often a moment—off-script and off the record—where they admit that the pace they’ve set isn’t sustainable. They talk about being “always on,” the gnawing fear of dropping the ball, or the inability to fully switch off, even during moments that are supposed to be restorative.
Some confide that the validation that once fuelled them—praise, promotions, recognition—has started to feel hollow. Others feel isolated at the top, unsure who they can safely speak to without risking perception or status.
The Cost of Constant Achievement
We’ve worked alongside leaders whose diaries are full but whose energy is depleted. From disrupted sleep and health issues, to strained relationships at home, the impact of overachievement can be both subtle and profound. What’s often overlooked is the mental load—the invisible effort it takes to maintain the appearance of control, competence, and composure while internally wrestling with self-doubt or fatigue.
Perfectionism frequently sits at the heart of it. One leader told us: “I don’t know who I am without the achievement. Slowing down feels like failure.” And it’s not just senior leaders—this mindset runs through organisations in quiet but pervasive ways.
When ‘Doing More’ Becomes a Cultural Norm
Many workplaces unintentionally perpetuate the cycle. “Busy” becomes a currency, and taking on more is seen as commitment. In sectors like health, community services, and not-for-profits—where purpose-driven professionals are already emotionally invested—the risk of burnout is even greater. We often meet people who feel personally responsible for outcomes far beyond their control.
For women, people from marginalised backgrounds, and those in new leadership positions, there can be an added pressure to prove themselves—working longer, harder, and smarter just to be seen as equal. We’ve heard this time and again.
Creating Space for Something Different
The first step is recognising that the toll is real. And that it’s okay to talk about it. Healthy ambition doesn’t mean being available 24/7 or defining self-worth by output.
We’ve seen the power of small shifts: leaders modelling boundaries, team members taking real lunch breaks, organisations genuinely encouraging rest—not just rewarding results. It takes courage to change pace when the world around you keeps pushing forward. But we’ve also seen how those who do tend to lead more sustainably, with greater clarity and connection.
A Note to the Overachiever
If this resonates with you—you’re not alone. And you’re not failing. You’ve likely built incredible things, lifted others along the way, and made a real impact. But you deserve to feel well while doing it. Achievement shouldn’t cost you your health, your peace, or your sense of self.
Success is still sweet. But so is the rest. And maybe the most courageous thing we can do is redefine what thriving really looks like.
If you’re navigating leadership, burnout, or considering your next move, you’re not alone. At Be Recruitment, we support professionals and organisations across the community and health sectors to thrive, not just survive.
Reach out to us at [email protected] or connect with one of our Directors today for a confidential conversation.
