After you’ve been working for 20 years or more, it’s natural to assume you know how to manage your career or how to run a business.

However, a study by Harvard Business Review found mid-career professionals need support if they want to avoid being undervalued and overworked.

The researchers found professionals between the ages of 40 and 48 were the group most likely to make work decisions that led to less-than-successful outcomes.

This was partly due to the pressures of keeping up with daily demands and feeling stressed about making changes.

Employees and Entrepreneurs often feel trapped between the need to innovate and the fear of being penalized if they take risks that don’t produce quick gains.

If you think you’re heading into a rut, there are many ways to recharge your business/career.

Coaches also require support.

Try the suggestions noted below for dealing with fear and burnout to be  more productive in your life and business.

Dealing with Fear and Burnout:

1. Focus on strategy. Distinguish between leading and managing. Reflect upon the purpose and impact of your work as well as how to get it done. Look for opportunities to influence and inspire others.
2. Ask for feedback. Let your client/colleagues know you value their opinion and feedback. Thank them for their input and use it to enhance your performance.
3. Cultivate your network. Warm-up old contacts and reach out to new ones. Schedule at least one coffee date or business lunch a week. Join committees and networking at your professional association or online. Become an active participating member in each group who gives back.
4. Find a coach/mentor. Yes, even coaches need coaching. Locate someone you trust with expertise in areas of interest to you. Remember, coaching and mentoring can be helpful at any stage in your business/career.
5. Continue learning. Partake in training sessions at work and browse online for certification courses. Subscribe to specific industry publications and discuss them with your colleagues. There is significant value in your level of expertise.
6. Practice deliberately. Apply what you learn to your daily operations. Set goals for increasing your productivity and living a lifestyle you desire.
7. Evaluate your standing. On a consistent basis re-evaluate your business role/career, at least once every six months. Update your resume, social media profiles, and services you offer. Set specific goals to strive for and identify your niche.

Creating Work-Life Priorities:

1. Practice self-care. You’re more likely to have a excel in business if you make your personal well-being a top priority. Eat a nutritious diet, exercise regularly, and stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
2. Strengthen your relationships. Spend time with family and friends. Build a network of support with loved ones who know you and care about you. Be present at the moment and when not working – be all in with whom you are with.
3. Maximize your leisure time. Use your hours outside the office wisely. Develop a hobby that challenges and relaxes you. Participate in cultural activities and team sports.
4. Deepen your spirituality. Connect with something larger than yourself. Clarify your values and purpose in life. Pray, meditate, and read inspiring texts each day. Join a spiritual community with others who share your beliefs.
5. Work smarter. Free up more time and energy for the things that matter to you. Plan your week in advance and coordinate errands. Leverage technology to complete tasks faster. Figure out the times of day when your performance peaks and use those hours to focus on your top priorities.
6. Lighten up. You can enjoy life while taking your responsibilities seriously. A cheerful attitude may even help you to achieve more. Take frequent breaks and see the humor in difficult situations. Turn household chores and office paperwork into a game.

Your mid-career years can be an exciting time to learn and grow.

You can make dramatic changes like changing jobs or starting a new business or implementing small adjustments in how you approach your current position and daily life.

LT