The #1 thing that will kill your income in sales.
Dealing with burnout
Happy Tuesday everyone! I hope this weeks edition is as beneficial for you reading it…. as it was for me writing it. If it is, then please forward it along to somebody you feel could use it in their life. Thank you for being a part of the journey.
Have you ever felt like you're riding the world's craziest roller coaster, only to realize it's not a ride at all, but your sales career? Yeah, we've all been there. Sales is like that unpredictable roller coaster – thrilling highs, gut-wrenching lows, and the occasional loop-de-loop that leaves you wondering why you signed up for this in the first place.
Okay, maybe not exactly like that, but you get the picture. The constant pressure to hit targets, the endless stream of rejection, and the never-ending hustle can take a toll on even the most seasoned sales pros.
Next thing you know you’re jaded by the process, you’re numbers fall, you mind starts filling with self doubt and uncertainty. What once worked, no longer does and that sparkle in your eye is gone. You are, in every sense of the word, burned out.
Burnout is the #1 thing that will cost you money in sales…..period.
But here's the thing – burnout is not just a rite of passage; it's a real, tangible issue that affects salespeople everywhere. Without taking breaks or pausing to recharge, it's perfectly normal for the relentless grind to start chipping away at your mental well-being. It's like trying to SPRINT a marathon – sure, you might make it to the finish line, but at what cost?
Imagine your brain is a smartphone – constantly buzzing with notifications, running low on battery, and in desperate need of a software update. You wouldn't expect your phone to perform at its best without giving it a break, right? The same goes for your brain. Sometimes you need to hit the reset button, step away from the chaos, and give yourself permission to recharge.
Now, I know what you're thinking – easier said than done, right? Trust me, I get it. Taking breaks in sales can feel like admitting defeat or letting the competition get ahead. But here's the kicker – taking care of yourself is not a sign of weakness; it's the sign of a true professional. It's like putting on your oxygen mask before helping others on a turbulent flight – you can't pour from an empty cup.
In other words:
You are far better off running at 100% efficiency 80% of the time than running at 50% efficiency 100% of the time. Not only are you more productive overall, but you’ll be a hell of a lot happier.
So, how do you confront burnout head-on without sacrificing your sales mojo? Allow me to share a few nuggets of wisdom from the trenches:
Embrace the Art of Saying "No": Just because you can work 24/7 doesn't mean you should. Learn to set boundaries, prioritize your tasks, and politely decline anything that doesn't align with your goals. Trust me, your sanity will thank you.
Schedule Regular Brain Breaks: Think of your brain as a muscle – it needs rest and recovery to perform at its best. Schedule regular breaks throughout your day to recharge, whether it's a quick walk around the block, a power nap, or a dance party in your living room (no judgment here).
Find Your Team: Sales can be a lonely gig, but it doesn't have to be. Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who understand the struggle and can offer support and encouragement when you need it most. Bonus points if they have a killer sense of humor.
Embrace the Power of Laughter: They say laughter is the best medicine, and for good reason. Injecting humor into your day can help alleviate stress, boost creativity, and strengthen connections with your colleagues and clients. Plus, who doesn't love a good dad joke or a pun-filled email subject line?
Remember, confronting burnout is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's about finding what works for you and making self-care a non-negotiable part of your routine. So, the next time you find yourself teetering on the edge of burnout, take a step back, take a deep breath, and remember – you've got this.
“Find out who you are and do it on purpose." - Dolly Parton
Sales on, my friends!