Take the Break Before You Break

One of my clients, a senior executive at a global PR agency, recently told me she had gotten sick—and admitted that, in a way, it was nice. It forced her to take a break.

Sort of. She was still working on a new business pitch, pushing through with a fever and a laundry list of symptoms.

The situation she found herself in was both so messed up and so relatable. I know I've been in similar shoes before—except in my case, it was an orthopedic boot. An X-ray revealed a broken ankle one morning, then I spent the entire afternoon and evening doing crisis communications.  

🚨 If taking a break requires breaking down, something’s wrong. 🚨

May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a powerful reminder to pause and take stock. What beliefs, expectations, or habits might be pushing you past your limits? I recently wrote about the critical role boundaries play in both well-being and professional growth for communications professionals in particular. The work is always there when we return, and sometimes a well-deserved break (preferably not of a bone) is all it takes to gain a fresh perspective.

Regardless of what industry you’re in, it’s worth asking: What can you stop, start, or continue doing today to keep burnout from becoming your baseline? 

Real Talk

If your motivation is swinging like temps in the spring, you’re not alone! Instead of beating yourself up for feeling off or unmotivated, what if you tried tuning in and letting go? Some days call for deep focus; others, for fresh air or rest. A little self-awareness can go a long way for your mental health and your productivity. Check out this brief video to see how it went for me last week.

Brain Food

On last week’s Small Business Bestie pod, Michelle Smock and I had a fun, heartfelt, no B.S. convo you don’t want to miss! We talked how confident women are "bold, not bitchy," how core values unlock authentic leadership, why gender stereotypes are about the lens—not the leader—and how the compliment sandwich is killing your feedback game. Catch it on YouTube, Spotify, Apple or Amazon! 

In the Spotlight

1:1 Coaching

Coaching is like having a supportive passenger riding shotgun in your car. You're in the driver’s seat—choosing the destination, the route, the pace. A coach’s role is to help you navigate the GPS, spot roadblocks, and move forward. If you're at a crossroads, let’s talk. A strategy call can help you decide if now’s the time for a trusted co-pilot and a new soundtrack.

Local to Lex? Join Me! 

I’ve got two exciting (and free!) events coming up, and I’d love to see you there.

🗓️ Thursday, May 15 

I’m teaming up with Plastic Surgeons of Lexington for a special event designed to help busy women glow from the inside out. Think exclusive discounts, giveaways, and fun surprises! Spots are limited, so RSVP today. 

🗓️ Tuesday, May 20

Thank you to the Women’s Business Center of Kentucky for inviting me to speak at Strong Women, Strong Coffee! Join us for a relatable and candid conversation on “Leading Without Limits: Tackling Perfectionism, Imposter Syndrome, and Burnout.”

Give Yourself a Break

Remember: you don’t have to earn rest. You deserve it! I hope this month you’ll give yourself permission to pause and reflect on what's most important to you. 🫶