Give Yourself Grace: A Journey Through Burnout, Breakdowns, and Gratitude

Dear Burntout Teacher Turned Tutor / Entrepreneur,

Today, I want to talk to you about something that we often forget to give ourselves: grace. It’s a word that carries immense power, yet it’s surprisingly easy to overlook, especially when life throws curveballs at us left and right.

As a 30-year-old who’s been through the wringer of teaching burnout and the tumultuous transition into entrepreneurship, I understand the weight of expectations, the fear of failure, and the constant nagging question of whether we’re “good enough.”

Just recently, I found myself at a crossroads, reeling from rejection and questioning my worth. “I have decided to move in a different direction,” were the words that shattered my confidence, leaving me in a puddle of tears. Sound familiar? It’s a gut-wrenching feeling that digs deep into our insecurities and whispers doubts in our ears.

But amidst the chaos and self-doubt, there’s something I’ve come to realize: we are our own toughest critics. We berate ourselves for every misstep, every setback, forgetting that we’re only human. We forget to extend the same kindness to ourselves that we readily offer to others.

Technology, libraries, and cherished best friends have become my lifelines, helping me navigate the stormy seas of uncertainty. They’ve reminded me that it’s okay to stumble, to falter, to break down. And most importantly, they’ve taught me the importance of giving myself grace.

Take, for instance, a particularly challenging day when everything seemed determined to sabotage my success. From sleepless nights to missed meetings to breakdowns on the side of the highway, it felt like the universe was conspiring against me. Yet, amid the chaos, there was a moment of clarity.

As I sat in the corner of a library, hastily joining a crucial online meeting, I found solace in the simple act of coloring to soothe my frayed nerves. And during a break in the chaos, as I reflected on the whirlwind of emotions, it hit me: “Give yourself grace.”

Those words echoed in my mind, a gentle reminder to be kinder to myself, to acknowledge that I’m doing the best I can, even when it feels like I’m falling short. And you know what? It made a world of difference.

Sure, I stumbled, I faltered, but I also showed up. I showed up despite the doubts, despite the fears, because I believed in myself and my ability to persevere. And you know what else? They quoted me in the chat! (Yes, cue the virtual high-fives!)

So, to my fellow burnt-out teachers turned entrepreneurs, I want you to remember this: you are enough. You are worthy. And it’s okay to give yourself grace, especially when the road ahead seems daunting.

Thank you, Lori Kennedy, for believing in me and providing the platform to build my business. Thank you to the entire Zero to Clients team for your unwavering support. And thank you to every public library out there for being a sanctuary in times of chaos.

In the end, it’s not about how many times we fall but how many times we pick ourselves back up. So, here’s to embracing the journey, flaws and all, and giving ourselves the grace we so rightfully deserve.

With love and support,

Lexi Limbert Soderberg