In any role, but especially in positions of leadership or caregiving, burnout is a common concern. When your heart is deeply invested in both your work and the welfare of others, the pressure to do more can be overwhelming. As a pastor and CEO, I’ve faced times when the line between work and personal life was blurred. My wife and work partner, Lisa, often reminds me of a few of her mantras: 

• A need doesn’t constitute a call – we cannot do everything for everyone all the time, but it is important to work out what we can do and do it with kindness. 
• Learn to pat yourself on the back – often we under-index our natural abilities and instead harshly judge our learned skills. Try not to do this, and also take time out to celebrate what you do well (or at least accept compliments on your achievements). 
• If we begin with a deficit mindset we will end with one.

The key to avoiding burnout is to recognise that sustainable impact comes from pacing yourself. It’s essential to set boundaries that protect your physical and mental well-being. This might mean stepping back from certain responsibilities when needed or delegating tasks effectively. Burnout often stems from the myth of “martyrdom” – the belief that to do meaningful work, you must sacrifice yourself endlessly. But true service is found in long-term commitment, not in short bursts of exhaustion. 

Also, I remember the advice of my mother-in-law – the only good martyr is a dead one! 

For professionals in corporate settings, this may look like setting aside time for yourself and ensuring you’re not overcommitting. Seek the support you need to spread the load and ensure you’re not carrying the entire burden yourself.

Remember that you must “stop well to go well” – the best leaders take time out to recharge and model that to their people.

As a pastor, I often find myself “on call” 24/7. There is always a need: a parishioner or visitor in distress, a program or charity project that requires my oversight. In a corporate environment, you may feel similar pressure – be it through client needs, project deadlines or internal expectations.

The key to balancing this “always on” feeling is to prioritise and set clear expectations.

The most rewarding aspect of balancing your career with community service is the sense of purpose it brings. As a pastor and CEO, my work is more than just a job – it’s a vocation, a “response to a voice calling me”. When you view your work as part of a larger calling, it helps you see beyond the day-to-day grind and embrace a broader perspective.

You may not find that in your paid role, and that is okay! If you do, you are fortunate indeed. Whether it’s through corporate volunteerism, community outreach or workplace giving, these efforts allow you to live out your values within the context of your professional life.

When you actively serve others, you begin to see the true rewards of your efforts. It’s easy to become disillusioned by the pressures of work, but service to the community provides a deep sense of satisfaction that transcends monetary or material gains.