Life can be difficult and full of challenges. Many people struggle with busy schedules and do everything they can to keep their lives on track. There is a natural tendency for people, especially those in leadership positions, to believe they have to do more to gain control. After a while, some may start to struggle. Often, they fear they are not doing enough. That’s not the case, though. They’re actually “overing.”
According to neuroscience, burnout is caused by people overextending, overthinking, and over-functioning. They’re not doing anything wrong; they’re just doing too much, and the brain and nervous system are stuck in overdrive. A small reset can help people regain their clarity and energy.
The Invisible Load
Those who live with a lot of responsibility often don’t recognize just how much of an invisible load they are carrying. Those around them don’t understand the full extent of their emotional labor because they’re so efficient at what they do. That invisible load can become too much over time, sapping their energy and mental clarity while affecting their overall health and well-being.
“My work centers on supporting the people who support everyone else—health professionals, community leaders, and caregivers who often carry more than anyone realizes. I educate them on practical brain health and resilience strategies they can use right away,” says Barbara Gustavson, an author, speaker, and brain health advocate. She is the founder of Discover Next Step and the author of REGROUP: How to Reset Your Mind so You Can Unlock Hidden Energy, Enjoy Productive Peace, and Feel Like Yourself Again.
Her life experience and scientific background give her an intimate understanding of the tendency for some people to regularly overexert themselves.
Burnout Isn’t a Personal Shortcoming
Adding to the heavy burden many carry is the shame that comes with burnout. It is often regarded as a personal shortcoming when it is actually a brain and nervous system issue. Many wait until they are completely drained and unable to cope before seeking help.
Pushing harder is not a solution to burnout, Gustavson points out. Burnout recovery is possible with support and altering behavior. She developed what she calls the REGROUP Framework, which includes micro-resets, setting boundaries, and brain-friendly rhythms to restore energy and clarity.
Brain and Mental Health Are Essential
Concentrating on brain health can help individuals avoid burnout before it happens. By implementing brain-based strategies, they can regroup before they hit rock bottom. A healthy brain is vital to being able to lead with strength without “overing.”
This is especially important to those who give caregiver support, something Gustavson understands well.
“Years ago, I went through a series of life-changing moments—losing my mom, becoming the primary decision maker and helping take care of my dad, raising a family, and running a business. What looked manageable from the outside slowly became overwhelming on the inside,” Gustavson says.
Recognizing the invisible weight they are carrying is the first step to helping people shift their mindset and understand the importance of their brain health. Programs like the REGROUP Framework help people manage their stress through nervous system regulation.
Once people understand how their brain is wired, they can identify points of stress that drain them of energy and create a custom plan to keep their brains healthy and avoid “overing.”
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