WINsday Inspiration

When stress knocks, the brain locks… and suddenly you’re on emotional airplane mode. Whew, I know that place. I’ve been there and had to sit myself down and do some real truth-telling.

See, sometimes I remind myself, and I remind the women I coach, that our brains think they’re protecting us. They mean well. But instead of helping, the brain shuts us down. We go numb. We get quiet. And before we know it, we’re asking, ‘Why don’t I even feel like myself anymore?’

The good news is that your brain isn't malfunctioning; it's simply being overly protective. When stress happens, your brain activates the 'off switch.' This is not exclusive to women; it happens to men as well.

It's not a sign of weakness. It's an indication. An indication that your soul and body are pleading for attention, for truthfulness, for a fresh start.

This is why you might feel numb, fatigued, and inclined to procrastinate. It accounts for the growing clutter, the unmade bed, missed calls, unkempt hair, and depleted energy. Burnout is not random; it has a cause. Recognizing it is the first step toward recovery. Here are some causes I noticed in myself and others...

Silent Sufferer – Choosing not to speak up to avoid tension, conflict, or protect others’ feelings.

Over-functioning in relationships – Doing more than your share emotionally, financially, house chores, and parenting alone to “hold it together.”

Over-functioning at an unfulfilling job, commuting, stressful or hostile work environment,

Prayer Shield – Being the prayer warrior, encourager, or faith-holder for others while privately battling your own doubts.

Unpaid Support Roles – Offering therapy-like listening, encouragement, and advice without reciprocity or rest.

People-Pleasing – Suppressing your true feelings to keep peace or avoid conflict. Being an "emotional manager" always anticipating other people's needs.

Caregiving – Constantly meeting the needs of others (family, elders, friends) before your own without a break or support.

Being the “Strong One” – Always showing up for others, even when you're breaking inside.

Emotional Manager – Calming, encouraging, or absorbing other people’s stress or anger. Carrying the burden of making others feel good or fulfilled. The "emotional sponge", fixer, and rescuer.

Suppressing Grief or Anger – Hiding sadness or frustration to appear “ok” or to avoid judgment, questions, and feelings of sadness.

Peacemaker – Mediating family, work, or relationship tension while neglecting your own peace.

Performing Perfection – Keeping up appearances, always "on," even when you're falling apart.