From Burnout to Balance Lessons I Learned About Making Space for Myself

For a long time, I thought I was strange for wanting so much time alone. I’d see other people thriving in busy social lives and wonder if there was something wrong with me. But over the years, I’ve realised that solitude isn’t a weakness - it’s a superpower.

When I give myself time and space, I’m able to slow down, tune into my gut, and really think about the choices I’m making. I’ve learned to ask: How does this decision make me feel? Does it bring me joy? Does it feel aligned with who I am becoming?

As a recovering perfectionist and people-pleaser, this shift has been huge. I no longer push myself to do things just because I “should.” Instead, I try to choose the things that make me smile the most - the things that feel light, expansive and ‘right’.

The Power of Making Space

Making space in life isn’t just about having quiet time. For me, it’s about creating room to:

• Listen inward - to the small nudges and gut feelings that guide me.
• Reflect - on work, relationships, health, and where I’m heading.
• Process - the emotions that come with big changes or challenges.
• Reconnect - with what really matters, not just what’s urgent.

Sometimes that looks like journaling. Sometimes it’s a walk in nature, or just sitting quietly with a cup of tea. The point is not the ritual itself, but the permission I give myself to pause.

Wisdom Along the Way

A friend once recommended I read The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success by Deepak Chopra. I can never quite remember the seven laws off by heart, but I dip into that book when I need reminding. A few ideas that have stuck with me are:

• The Law of Least Effort: life doesn’t always have to be a battle. Sometimes the best path is the one that feels natural and joyful.
• The Law of Intention and Desire: this one is huge for me! Clarity matters. When you’re clear on what you want, the world has a way of aligning.
• The Law of Dharma (Purpose): each of us has something unique to bring to the world. Take the time to figure out what it is.

These reminders help me keep perspective: I don’t have to have everything figured out. What matters is that I keep creating space to notice, reflect, and choose.

Redefining Success

When I was younger, I thought success was about money, busyness, and external recognition. Burnout taught me otherwise.

Now, success feels more like this:

• Good health.
• Balance.
• Joy in everyday moments.
• Doing the things that make me feel truly alive.
• Living in the moment.

That doesn’t mean I have it all worked out. But I’m much clearer now that my purpose is to live as fully as I can, and to help others do the same – should they want to.

Final Thought

If you’re constantly running on empty, I want to encourage you: start by making space. Step away from the noise, even for five minutes. Listen inward. Ask yourself what really brings you joy, and let that guide you.

Because the journey from burnout to balance doesn’t start with doing more. It starts with giving yourself the permission to pause.

Sometimes making space is the hardest part. If you’d like a gentle nudge, The Vitality Deck is designed to help - each card offers a simple practice or reflection you can bring into your day, giving you that little reminder to pause and reconnect.