Navigating Musical Theatre Burnout: Strategies for a Balanced Career
Navigating Musical Theatre Burnout: A Journey to Self-Discovery and Balance
Five years ago, I hit a breaking point in my career as a musical theatre performer and educator. The demands of being a tenure-track professor, performer, and director left me working 60+ hours a week, sacrificing crucial aspects of my life. Burnout was looming, and I knew I had to redefine my approach to success and well-being. In this blog, I'll share the tactics I've cultivated to lead a burnout-free life.
Defining Success and Setting Priorities
The first crucial step is being clear about your definition of success. Understand what you're willing to sacrifice in different aspects of your life. I often use a pie chart to divide my priorities, recognizing that some seasons may require sacrifices in one area for the benefit of another.
Realistic Financial Needs
Don't fall into the trap of equating financial success with personal fulfillment. Evaluate your actual financial needs and be realistic. I experienced burnout when I mistakenly believed I needed more money than necessary. Align your work with your financial requirements, ensuring you're not overworking for the sake of perceived success.
Identifying Desired Work
Ask yourself what type of work truly fulfills you. After my burnout, I realized I wanted to focus on projects that aligned with my passion and values. Whether you're a performer or involved in other aspects of the industry, pinpoint the work that brings you joy and fulfillment.
Putting Yourself First
Contrary to common misconceptions, putting yourself first is not selfish. It's a prerequisite for being the best version of yourself for others. Break free from societal expectations, and don't stay in a job or pursue projects simply to please others. Learn from my experience – prioritizing your needs and desires leads to a more fulfilling life.
Embracing Continuous Learning
Reject the idea of being an expert and embrace the mindset of a lifelong learner. I discovered that maintaining a willingness to learn and evolve is essential for avoiding burnout. Explore new skills, take risks, and be open to making mistakes. This attitude not only fosters personal growth but also safeguards against the stagnation that can lead to burnout.
Embracing Boredom for Mental Rejuvenation
In our fast-paced lives, boredom might seem counterproductive, but it's a powerful tool for mental rejuvenation. Allow yourself to be bored – take breaks from constant productivity. Create mental space for creativity and self-reflection. My husband and I found solace in embracing boredom, allowing us to regroup and recenter when life became overwhelming.
Living a Minimalistic Life
Simplify your external environment to reduce distractions and enhance focus. Living a minimalistic life has been a game-changer for me. Minimize material possessions, declutter your living space, and prioritize experiences over possessions. This external simplification can significantly alleviate stress and contribute to a more balanced life.
Conclusion: Cultivating a Fulfilling Career
Musical theatre burnout is a real challenge, but with intentional steps and a commitment to personal well-being, it can be avoided. Redefine success, set priorities, and be mindful of your physical and mental health. Embrace a life that aligns with your values, and remember, it's okay to be bored sometimes – it's in those moments that creativity and rejuvenation thrive.
Remember, your journey is unique, and finding balance is an ongoing process. Here's to a fulfilling and burnout-free career in musical theatre!
Ashlee Espinosa is an accomplished theatre professional with a Master of Fine Arts in Musical Theatre. With her expertise as an experienced actress, passionate educator, and dedicated career advisor, she helps artists build fulfilling lives and careers based on their definition of success.
