This week, we talk about the tension between going all-in on your biggest goals and avoiding burnout—especially as we see conversations about "the great lock-in" trending.
The Big Question Can I square ambition and sustainability, or do I have to choose one over the other?
The 4 Steps
- Get intentional about your vision: Write down your short-term and long-term goals, both personally and professionally. What's your bigger purpose? What do you want to accomplish?
- Think co-creation, not solo execution: Identify your zone of genius and find people to fill the gaps. This applies to both business and personal life—you don't have to do everything yourself.
- Build your wraparound support system: Map out the professional, personal, self-care, and community support you need. Remember: this doesn't always mean spending money—leverage community, skill swaps, and existing relationships.
- Create a decision-making matrix: Establish clear boundaries and criteria for saying yes or no to opportunities. Ask: Does this align with my top 3-5 goals? Is this the right time, partner, and place?
Remember: You can do it all, but you can't do it all at one time. Balance isn't static—it changes based on your season and priorities.
Key Takeaway: Don't limit your ambition by what you think is sustainable. Have the ambition first, then figure out how to make it sustainable through intentionality, co-creation, and community.
Resources for this Episode: Rest is Resistance, Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less
Have a question for the show? Email podcast@cocreatework.com. Subscribe to our newsletter for written framework and prompts.
As always, thank you for your leadership.
Resources:
- Navigating a big transition? Check out our Pivot Plan: 8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Your Next Big Move.
- Think coaching might be right for you? Schedule a free consultation to explore how we can help you step into your next level of leadership.
- Interested in going deeper in your own leadership and building your network? Join the waitlist for The CoCreate Work Leadership Book Club to explore the themes from this episode in community—through powerful reads, reflection prompts, and live conversations.
- Our last session of the Culture Crash Course just ended, but if you're interested in a Culture Crash Course for your organization or team, please contact us at support@cocreatework.com.
- Interested in leadership development for your team? Our Workshops are a great wait to develop your team's skills and connection.
- At CoCreate Work, we believe in asking great questions. Click here to receive our guide to 40 Powerful Questions to accelerate your growth.
We would love to connect with you!
Questions you would like us to answer on the podcast? Email us at podcast@cocreatework.com