When Compassion Fatigue Drains Your Business
"Compassion fatigue can come on because you're more willing to choose for them than they are willing to choose for themselves." - Christine McIver
When Compassion Fatigue Drains Your Business
Have you ever ended a client call and felt completely drained – not because the conversation was hard, but because you gave too much of yourself away? That used to happen to me a lot, and I didn’t have a name for it at first. But over time, I realized what I was experiencing was compassion fatigue. And yes, it happens all too often to entrepreneurs.
We think compassion fatigue is something reserved for caregivers or those in personal coaching or even parenting. But as business owners, we care for our clients, our teams, and our communities. And sometimes, that care tips into over giving. We extend meetings far beyond the scheduled times, we give away our best ideas for free, and we carry more of our client’s burdens than they’re willing to carry for themselves. The result? Burnout, resentment, and a growing sense that your business – something you once loved – has become a burden.
I used to think giving more meant being more valuable. I’d stretch calls longer than scheduled, overdeliver, and try to prove my worth through generosity. But all it really proved was that I didn’t value my own time – and clients can feel that. It’s not inspiring. It’s exhausting. It’s not value, it’s insecurity.
Here’s what I’ve learned: When you honour your time and energy, you teach your clients to do the same. You show up with clarity and confidence. You attract people who are truly ready to grow, not just take. And you lead your business from a place of power, not depletion.
So, ask yourself: Am I feeling emotionally drained by my business? Do I feel guilty about setting boundaries or taking time off? Have I lost the joy and vision that used to drive me? If the answer is yes, it might be time for a deep dive into your focus and business strategy.
You don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re ready to restore your energy, get reconnected to your purpose, and move forward as the CEO your business truly needs – book a Business Audit & Strategy Call with me today:
https://api.icn-pro.com/widget/booking/fIIaAEuNYCECepL2T7Ec
Your joy matters. And your business can grow with ease when you take care of the one driving it – you.
Reach out to me at [email protected]
