You Matter Too: Prioritizing Self-Care for Women Who Lead 

For the woman who leads boldly—but needs rest deeply.

Dear Purpose-Driven Woman,

You wear many hats—visionary, mentor, leader, counselor, mother, and more. Yet behind the strength and responsibility often lies a quiet truth: you’re tired. Not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually drained. This month, we’re addressing a silent but widespread reality among women in leadership—burnout.

The Silent Burnout

Burnout doesn’t always show up dramatically. Sometimes, it’s hidden behind busy schedules and endless responsibilities. It may look like:

• Irritability that lingers

• Emotional numbness

• Inability to focus

• Guilt over taking breaks

• Going through the motions

• Losing joy in what once inspired you

These are not signs of weakness. They are signals. You don’t have to push through with an empty tank.

A Biblical Invitation to Rest

“Come to me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” — Matthew 11:28

“Even youths grow tired and weary... but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.” — Isaiah 40:30–31

Leadership can tire even the strongest among us. But our strength doesn’t lie in hustle alone—it’s rooted in hope, in faith, and in the God who invites us to rest.

Your Tool: Burnout Self-Awareness Checklist

Take a moment to reflect. Do any of these statements resonate?

• I feel guilty taking breaks

• I can’t remember the last time I did something just for me

• I feel emotionally disconnected

• I multitask—even during rest

• I dread responsibilities I once enjoyed

• I feel pressure to “hold it all together”

• I ignore my own physical or emotional pain

If you identified with more than three of these, it may be time to pause. Not because you’re weak—but because you're wise enough to recognize the signs.

[Click here to request the full Burnout & Reflection Toolkit]

Deeper Reflection: The Hidden Cost of Always Being Strong

As women, we often wear resilience like armor—celebrated for our ability to power through, to be the one everyone relies on. But here’s the truth: resilience without rest leads to resentment.

Many of us know this too well. The endless demands. The internal pressure to perform. The silent exhaustion. Even hearing your name can start to feel like too much.

But there’s power in the pause. It’s okay to say “no.” It’s necessary to set boundaries. It's vital to protect what truly matters: your peace, your joy, and your health. Because you can’t lead well when you’re running on empty.

Reflective Questions

• What would happen if I treated my wellness with the same care I give to my calling?

• Who benefits from my wholeness, and what has it cost me to ignore it?

• What would it look like to lead honestly—even when I’m not okay?

Your vulnerability is not a flaw—it’s a strength. It's the gateway to wholeness and the cornerstone of authentic leadership.

Final Encouragement

God never asked you to pour from an empty cup. You lead best when you're restored, renewed, and whole. This season, choose to lead from overflow—not depletion.

You matter too. Rest. Replenish. Rise again.

About the Author:

Dr. Chavonne D. Stewart is an experienced education consultant, next-level architect, speaker, and author, known for her transformative work in leadership training and  development. She focuses on coaching authentic women leaders. Dr. Stewart's dedication to education and leadership, coupled with her passion for travel and family, embodies her as both a professional and a role model and mentor for women.