Chicago Reflections

This is a different podcast episode, that's unedited (sorry, Chris!), but I felt needed to be shared. Twenty years have passed since I left the Windy City, and as I returned, I couldn't help but experience a mixture of nostalgia and trepidation. Once a source of exhilaration, the cityscape now evokes apprehension in me. Not only had the city changed, but so had the entire world around us. Everywhere I glanced, I observed people struggling to keep up with the rising demands of life, while battling inflation, a fast-paced world, and an ever-growing list of stressors. As the Chief Burnout Officer at Breakfast Leadership Network, I have personally witnessed the pervasive effects of burnout, and it grieved me to see these issues so prevalent in my hometown. Inflation has harmed American families, making it difficult for many to afford even the most fundamental necessities. In Chicago, I observed people juggling multiple jobs and responsibilities to remain afloat as they attempted to navigate the economic difficulties. In spite of the chaos, I was also captivated by the people's resilience and resolve. As is the case with the majority of Americans, Chicagoans are no strangers to adversity. And despite the growing number of stressors, a sense of community and willingness to support one another persist. In my position at Breakfast Leadership Network, I have witnessed the impact of providing assistance and encouragement to those who feel overburdened by life's difficulties. Reflecting on my return to Chicago, I am reminded of the significance of self- and other-compassion. It is crucial that we recognize the stressors in our lives and seek the assistance necessary to overcome them. At Breakfast Leadership Network, we endeavor to provide individuals and organizations with the resources and tools necessary to combat burnout and preserve their health. By doing so, we aim to foster a future in which people can not only survive adversity but also thrive.   https://FreeFromBurnout.com https://BreakfastLeadership.com