S4 Ep. 179 Burnout Bakeout: When Hustle Turns Hazardous
Today’s episode is one that’s coming straight from the heart (and maybe a little from the edge of a breakdown). We’re talking burnout—not the cute kind that gets fixed with a latte and a nap, but the crispy, crunchy, why-did-I-say-yes-to-this kind of burnout that so many interior designers are quietly dealing with. I'm calling it Burnout Bake Out—yes, it’s on brand with our new Bake House theme, but also because when you’re fried and flaking apart at the seams, it’s not just burnout, babe. That’s what happens when the oven’s been on too long and no one remembered to set a timer. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what burnout really looks like for us as designers—taking on too much, ghosting ourselves, and losing sight of why we started our businesses in the first place. If you've ever fantasized about quitting and moving to a goat farm (yes, I’ve been there), this one’s for you. What we cover in this episode: The rookie mistake most designers make that leads straight to burnout Why saying yes to every project is not a badge of honor The difference between being busy and being profitable (they are not the same) How I ended up juggling six full-home projects and almost lost my mind The exact script you can use when you need to reset expectations with a client Why clients aren’t hiring you to be perfect—they’re hiring you to lead How to bake in rest, white space, and recovery time into your business Practical ways to protect your energy and say “hell yes” only to the right projects Let’s be real for a second... Burnout is not your business model. Working yourself into the ground isn't a sign of success—it’s a sign that your systems, pricing, or boundaries need some love. And I want you to know: you’re allowed to rest. Renegotiating timelines doesn’t make you flaky—it makes you a pro. If this episode hit home, send it to a fellow designer who’s just one “sure, I can do that” away from burnout. Let’s normalize the hard conversations, the boundaries, and the brave decision to pause when needed. And if you’re ready for more support, tools, and some breathing room in your design business, come hang out with us over at thedesignbakehouse.com. There’s something waiting for you there. Until next time, Protect your energy. Trust your gut. And remember—you’re baked for this. Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/ Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact A Podcast Launch Bestie production
South Africa