Contact Us

FREEDOM FARMER BLOG

Burnout: Treat the Cause, not just the Symptoms

Nov 24, 2023

This week, our Director of Well-being, Tracy Secombe, shares her story of burnout with you. How she identified her symptoms and what she did to manage it. 

When I look back, I can see now that I was probably in burnout for close to 10 years without knowing it. 

I was the frog in the pot with the water boiling so gradually that I didn’t notice, but luckily, I didn’t experience the fate of the boiled frog. 

Like most people, I began by treating the symptoms of burnout. As a physiotherapist, my go-to treatment for my ever-increasing headaches was stretching, strengthening, massage, and occasional painkillers. However not being aware that I was in burnout meant that I never even considered trying to discover what might be the underlying cause of my burnout symptoms. 

I know now. 

I was so busy being pulled in so many different directions trying to keep everybody around me happy that I completely forgot about myself. I was so aware of other people’s needs and determined to help meet them that I didn’t know what my needs were. 

I got so good at presenting myself as happy and positive to the outside world that I had completely lost any connection to my real emotions. 

At a young age, I received praise for my achievements and for making other people feel good and I became addicted to it. I realised now that pushing myself so hard to achieve the next thing was driven by my trying to prove myself to other people. 

To prove my worth. 

I only thought I was good enough if I was always achieving more and more and helping others to get what they want. 

I still love helping other people get what they want. 

But now, I am aware of my own emotions, and I am aware of what drives me to do what I do.  

Back then, I worked from the minute I opened my eyes in the morning to the minute I closed them at night, and in fact, sometimes I’d wake up the following day and feel like I’d worked all night (it was like I dreamed about work) because I was subconsciously looking for approval from others. 

I didn’t have time for hobbies – in fact, I thought they were a waste of time. I thought it was impossible to be successful and have time for hobbies. 

Now I know differently. Now I know that feeling calm, happy, and inspired allows me to create the success that I want for myself and the people I love.  

Now I know that making time for me to feel good is the most important thing for me to do first before I take inspired action towards my goals. 

 Regards, 

Robbo, Tracy & The Farm Owners Academy Team 

Is Your Dream Team Right in Front of You?

Sep 19, 2024

In Rough Seas, Are You an Ocean Liner or a Dinghy?

Sep 06, 2024

While you're here, explore what's on at Farm Owners Academy

FREE COACHING
COMPLIMENTARY COACHING CALL

Ready to take your farm to the next level? We are here to help you overcome common challenges and achieve your business and personal goals.

BOOK YOUR CALL >
SHORT COURSE 
PRODUCTIVITY & TIME MANAGEMENT SHORT COURSE

A short course designed for busy farm owners and managers to help reduce the overwhelming workload and time management struggles you encounter daily, and increase your productivity and results.

ACCESS THE COURSE >
SHORT COURSE
THE FARM CASH FLOW OPTIMISER

Navigating the complexities of farm cash flow and financial planning might feel overwhelming, but you’re not alone. Many Aussie farmers have felt the pressure of managing finances amidst fluctuating markets, increasing interest rates and unpredictable weather. However, they've found a way to turn uncertainty into opportunity with the Cash Flow Optimiser Short Course.

RESERVE YOUR SEAT >
Head Office

252 Playford Hwy
Kingscote SA 5223

Let’s Talk

0447 184 167
[email protected]