Don’t Run on Empty: Fueling Your Leadership for the Long Haul
In retail leadership, there’s a feeling that many of us know all too well. It’s that mid-shift drag, the heavy weight that settles in after hours of managing tasks, solving problems, and being the go-to person. You’re keeping everything running, but at what cost to your own energy? Leadership isn’t just about guiding others; it’s about having the fuel to keep going day after day. Without refueling, burnout is almost inevitable. Imagine if you ran your car without ever stopping for gas. You’d be stranded on the side of the road. So why do we think we can lead on an empty tank? It’s time to make refueling as much a part of our routine as any other leadership task.
As we enter the busiest time of the year for most retail leaders, having your batteries charged and your tank full is critically important. It will also set you up for what will immediately follow, a kick-off to the new year. Let’s look at the realities we face in our roles, the impact that can have on us and our teams, and then review ways we can stay charged to support our business now and for the long term.
Fatigue isn’t overwork; it’s failure to refuel. — LeadershipFreak.blog
Managing your tank
Energy is a finite resource for all of us. You cannot go non-stop for too long before you realize you are dragging, and no longer can focus on what you are doing or have the energy to keep going. We have all hit that wall. For most retailers, November and December bring unique challenges, even if they’re not the busiest sales months. Balancing work responsibilities with the demands of home and family during the holidays can feel overwhelming. These months require us to be at our best both at work and at home, making it even more important to manage energy and avoid burnout. Remaining aware of your stress levels, your energy, and general mood will ensure you still show up in the best way for your team each day, and your family and friends at home.
Just like any limited resource, there is the need to refill and renew. We must make investments to gain new resources to carry forward. Pausing to catch your breath (literally and figuratively) must be part of your routine. When your tank runs low, your decision-making, morale, and ability to lead effectively begin to suffer. Refill regularly to stay sharp and maintain the impact you bring to those around you.
Signs of an empty tank
Can you recognize when you’re hitting a wall? Often, we all feel it—irritability, a lack of joy, numbness, or seeing everything as an intrusion. You might feel constantly tired, even after time off, and decisions seem overwhelming or something you’d rather avoid. I’ve experienced these signs throughout my career, and recognizing them is the first step in addressing burnout. The good news? Refueling doesn’t always mean a lengthy break. Small moments of recovery, practiced daily, can ease stress without needing extended time away from work.
“Rest and self-care are so important. When you take time to replenish your spirit, it allows you to serve others from the overflow.” — Eleanor Brownn.
Steps for recharging
Fortunately, there are things any of can do to ‘plug in’ and power back up without taking drastic steps.
Break things into smaller steps
Take things one step at a time when you begin to feel overwhelmed and stressed. Simplifying any project or action can minimize both of these feelings. Look for the easiest step to get started and build momentum. Seeing that there is a series of achievable actions can reduce the concern about how big it may be or long it will take.
Connect with energy positive people
While sharing struggles can offer brief relief, it rarely recharges your spirit—and being around others who are also burned out can drain you further. Instead, seek people who uplift and energize you. Connect with those who offer positive feedback, encourage solutions, and bring out the best in you.
Make time for yourself
When work feels nonstop, it’s easy to neglect rest, but taking breaks is essential. Prioritize a full night’s sleep, go to bed earlier, or use a day off to sleep in. Even a few extra hours can recharge you, giving you the energy to tackle the days ahead with focus and resilience.
The same can be said for exercise, or even a hobby you really enjoy (especially if that happens to be outside). I can speak to this personally. In the middle of a very busy season that included several travel days, I made the time to do a hike, in unseasonably nice weather, with my daughter. It reset and recharged me to finish the season with plenty of energy to stay on top of what needed to happen. These investments in yourself always pay off.
Don’t underestimate the small moments
Take a deep breath. How does that make you feel? Take a couple. Pause. Clear your mind. How do you feel now? A quick recharge like this can go a long way in helping you face whatever is next on your plate. Maybe you know you have a busy couple of hours coming up in your location. You may even realize you’re a little understaffed for the situation. Pause for one minute to take a few deep breaths, think about what can come from these next few hours, the excitement of serving customers and supporting your business. This can be a great way to calm yourself, yet also remind yourself of the fun things we get to do in our business. Even that subtle mindset shift of ‘get to’ versus ‘have to’ will give you the fuel to push through the coming peak time.
Leadership is always a series of marathons, not a sprint. As you guide your team through peak seasons and long days, remember that your energy is your greatest asset. Small moments of refueling, from taking deep breaths to connecting with positive people, can make all the difference. When you prioritize these simple habits, you’re not just boosting your own energy, you’re showing your team the importance of resilience, balance, and intentionality. So take time each day to refuel, not only for yourself but also for the example you set. Keep your cup full, lead from your best self, and make this season a success that inspires everyone around you.
How do you refuel, and ensure you are ready for what’s next?
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