Corporate Compass

Signs and How to Manage It

By Annie Laurenson

In the high-stakes world of governance, pressure is part of the job. Whether you’re a corporate secretary, governance advisor, or compliance officer, the constant balancing act of regulation, board dynamics, and organizational integrity can leave even the most resilient professionals depleted. “Burnout ” isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a real occupational hazard, and one that governance professionals can’t afford to ignore.

Understanding Burnout

Burnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged and excessive stress. It’s more than just being tired — it can erode your performance, relationships, and sense of purpose. And in governance — where the stakes are high and the work often underappreciated — the risk is especially acute.

Signs of Burnout in Governance Roles

Here are some key signs to watch out for:

1. Emotional Exhaustion

You feel drained before the day begins. The endless stream of meetings, policies, deadlines, and updates becomes overwhelming rather than stimulating.

2. Detachment or Cynicism

You become disengaged or indifferent toward board members, policies, or stakeholders. A role that once inspired now feels like a burden — or worse, a thankless task.

3. Reduced Performance

Tasks take longer, mistakes become more frequent, and motivation drops. Even routine responsibilities can start to feel insurmountable.

4. Constant Self-Criticism

Governance professionals often carry a strong sense of personal accountability. When burnout sets in, that internal pressure turns into self-doubt, questioning your competence or value.

5. Isolation

Many governance professionals are lone wolves — the only person in the organization doing what they do. With no team to lean on, and often no one who truly understands the demands of the role, the isolation can be as draining as the workload.

6. Resistance to Your Progress

It’s not uncommon to find that promotions or recognition are met with indifference — or even resistance. Governance work often flies under the radar, and when you finally move forward, some colleagues might not understand (or value) your contribution enough to support it.

Why Governance Professionals Are Especially Vulnerable

Governance is a field where high responsibility meets low visibility. You’re expected to:

• Maintain compliance in an ever-changing legal landscape
• Be the guardian of ethics, transparency, and due process
• Juggle board politics, executive demands, and regulatory scrutiny
• Carry the weight of decisions without always having decision-making power

For lone governance professionals — especially those without a team or peer group — the mental load is even heavier. And when your work is misunderstood or undervalued, it creates the perfect environment for burnout to take root.

How to Manage (and Prevent) Burnout

Image generated using AI

If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and you’re not powerless. Burnout isn’t just about working too much; it’s about working too long without recognition, support, or alignment. Here’s how to start taking control:

1. Reassess Your Boundaries

Set (and stick to) clear limits on when you’re available. Push back on unreasonable expectations, even when it’s uncomfortable. Your time is finite — treat it accordingly.

2. Prioritize What Matters

Not every task is mission-critical. Identify what truly moves the needle — for the organization and for your own role. Let go of the rest when possible.

3. Create Support Where You Can

If you’re a solo governance professional, consider building an external network. Peer groups, professional associations, and online communities can provide vital perspective, mentorship, and solidarity.

4. Speak the Language of Impact

Because governance work is often invisible, learn to communicate your value in business terms. Help others see how your work reduces risk, protects reputation, or strengthens strategic decisions.

5. Ask for What You Need

Burnout festers in silence. Talk to your board chair, CEO, or HR about capacity, recognition, and realistic workloads. Don’t wait for things to get worse before seeking support.

6. Protect Your Health Like a Policy

You wouldn’t let a compliance framework go without review — don’t neglect your own well-being either. Exercise, rest, social connection, and doing things that bring you joy are non-negotiable.

7. Reconnect With Purpose

Governance is about upholding the integrity of the organization. Even if it’s not always recognized, your work matters. Remind yourself of the bigger picture — and the role you play in shaping it.

Final Thoughts

Burnout in governance isn’t a personal failure — it’s an occupational risk that comes with a demanding, often misunderstood role. But by recognizing the signs and making deliberate changes, you can protect your well-being and stay effective in the long term.

You are the steady hand guiding your organization through risk, complexity, and change. Don’t forget to extend that same care and governance to yourself.

Finally “GIVE YOURSELF SOME GRACE!

“Grace, like water, flows to the lowest part.” ~Philip Yancey~

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About the Author:

Annie Laurenson is a governance professional who believes governance shouldn’t just be done — it should be lived. This series represents her personal reflections and not those of her employer, board, or any policy she’s ever wrestled into a readable format.