Breaking Burnout Myths & Thriving in Business
- The Underdog
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 21
We spoke with Lupita Almuhana in our latest podcast on Breaking the Mental Health Stigma. In this article, we’re sharing some of her key insights on preventing burnout and creating sustainable success — let’s break them down.
Myth 1: Stress is Always Bad
Not all stress is harmful. The Yerkes-Dodson Model shows that some stress actually helps—it keeps you sharp, motivated, and performing at your best.
The problem? When stress passes the threshold and becomes overwhelming, that’s when it turns into burnout. Think of it as a bell curve: the right amount of pressure keeps you moving, but too much will break you.
How to Use It:
· Recognize your peak performance zone—push yourself, but know when to pull back.
· Don’t glamorize overwork. More hours don’t always mean more results.
· Take intentional breaks before stress turns into exhaustion.
Myth 2: Work-Life Balance Means Keeping Things Separate
You don’t have two different lives—you have one. The Wellness Wheel proves that different areas of life (career, mental health, physical health, social connections, purpose, etc.) are all connected. If one is suffering, the others will too.
How to Use It:
Identify which area feels neglected—if you’re feeling off, check what’s missing.
Small actions matter—move your body for 5 minutes, call a friend, eat something nourishing.
Sustainability is key—our bodies thrive on routine, so consistency is more important than intensity.
Myth 3: Mindfulness Is More Than Just Meditation
Mindfulness isn’t about sitting cross-legged and breathing deeply (though that’s great if it works for you). It’s about being present. It’s about catching yourself before you spiral into stress overload.
How to Use It:
Build micro-mindfulness moments into your day—pause before a big meeting, take three deep breaths, stretch for a minute between tasks.
Blend wellness with enjoyment—turn activities you love into intentional self-care practices.
“Me time” isn’t a luxury, it’s a necessity. Even five minutes of awareness can shift your energy.
Myth 4: You Have to Handle Everything Alone
A long-running Harvard study confirms it: social connections boost well-being. Yet, in today’s hyperconnected world, loneliness is on the rise—especially for entrepreneurs and high-performers who isolate themselves while building their dreams.
How to Use It:
Prioritize real, face-to-face connections—grab coffee with a friend, attend a networking event.
Find your tribe. Join founder circles, mastermind groups, or wellness communities. Remember: Hustle doesn’t have to mean isolation.
Myth 5: Burnout Happens Overnight
Burnout doesn’t hit like a lightning bolt—it creeps in. Chronic stress builds up slowly, often showing up in physical symptoms first: fatigue, body aches, headaches, and loss of focus.
How to Prevent It:
· Watch for the early warning signs—if your energy is constantly low, something’s off.
· Take proactive steps: get enough sleep, move your body, eat well, and make time for joy.
· Integrate small, consistent actions that add up to big change.
The Power of the Wellness Sprinkle
Lupita’s final advice? Wellness doesn’t have to be a full spa day or a week-long retreat. It can be simple, intentional actions throughout your day.
How to Use It:
· Take three deep breaths before your next meeting.
· Stretch in your chair.
· Smile and chat with a friend.
· Move your body for five minutes.
You can’t build something great if you’re constantly running on empty. True success isn’t about pushing yourself until you break—it’s about sustaining yourself so you can keep going. Prioritize your wellness, and you’ll see the difference in every area of your life.
ABOUT LUPITA
Lupita Almuhana is a corporate wellness advocate and founder of Stressie, an app for stress management. With a Master’s in Psychology from Harvard and a background in global business, she now helps individuals and companies prioritize well-being without sacrificing success.
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