44: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Redefining Career Success
From Burnout to Breakthrough: Redefining Career Success with Michaela Robertson
On this episode of the Accidental CEO Podcast, host Nata Salvatori sits down with Michaela Robertson, a nurse, coach, and founder of Michaela Robertson Coaching and Strides for Strength. Michaela shares her journey from new grad nurse at the onset of the pandemic to a career coach helping professionals beat burnout and rediscover their passions.
If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected from your career, Michaela’s insights are here to inspire your next steps.
From Nursing to Coaching: Michaela’s Story
Starting her nursing career in late 2019, Michaela faced unique challenges as a new grad in the midst of a global pandemic. Moving away from family and support systems, she quickly realized how broken the healthcare system could feel and how common struggles like burnout, fatigue, and disconnection were.
She pivoted her journey by focusing on career development and self-mastery, which led her to establish her coaching business. Today, Michaela helps nurses and other professionals align their careers with their passions and purpose, offering actionable strategies to thrive rather than just survive.
“Just because it’s common doesn’t mean it’s normal.” — Michaela Robertson
How to Design a Career You Love
Michaela’s coaching philosophy revolves around self-discovery, alignment, and actionable change. Here are some key strategies she shared:
- Start with Self-Care:
Build a foundation of health with consistent movement, nutrition, and mindfulness practices. Michaela emphasizes that energy is critical for exploring your passions and pursuing new opportunities. - Recognize Your Unique Gifts:
Take note of what lights you up and what others seek your help with. These moments of engagement can guide you toward a fulfilling path. - Ask for What You Want:
Don’t be afraid to request new responsibilities or create initiatives in your current role. Michaela’s own wellness challenges at work started simply by asking. - Don’t Fear Career Transitions:
Whether it’s a pivot to a new specialty or launching a side hustle, transitions are opportunities to align your work with your evolving values and skills.
“An external change won’t fix internal misalignment. Come home to yourself first.” — Michaela Robertson
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Navigating Burnout in High-Stress Careers
Burnout is a common theme among Michaela’s clients, particularly healthcare workers. She helps them understand the impact of their work on their nervous system and overall well-being. Michaela’s process includes:
- Establishing Boundaries: Learn to protect your energy, time, and mental health.
- Assessing Work Environment: Determine whether your workplace supports your growth or contributes to toxicity.
- Focusing on Joy: Incorporate fun and play into your routine to reconnect with what makes you feel alive.
“Boundaries aren’t to keep others out—they’re to keep what you need in.” — Michaela Robertson
Balancing Passion and Purpose
For professionals with entrepreneurial aspirations, Michaela offers wisdom on managing the transition from a stable career to building a business. Key takeaways include:
- Your Income Doesn’t Define Your Purpose:
It’s okay to have a “day job” while building a passion-driven business. Use it as a safety net to invest in yourself and your goals. - Define Success for Yourself:
Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Michaela encourages clients to journal and envision what their ideal life looks and feels like. - Stay Curious and Open:
Whether through shadowing, part-time roles, or mentorship, small steps can lead to major breakthroughs.
The Role of Physical Wellness in Career Growth
Michaela incorporates running coaching into her broader philosophy, seeing physical activity as a metaphor for personal and professional growth.
“Life on the run is you versus you. Choose the version of yourself that believes you can.” — Michaela Robertson
Running, like career pivots, teaches resilience, self-discipline, and the value of pushing through discomfort.
Final Thoughts
Michaela’s story is a testament to the power of self-discovery and resilience. Whether you’re a nurse, creative entrepreneur, or anyone navigating a career pivot, her insights remind us that growth comes from alignment and courage.
Ready to align your career with your passion? Tune in to Michaela’s Built to Be You Podcast and connect with her on Instagram.
Call to Action
Looking for coaching that combines business strategies and mindset work to help you thrive? Let’s connect! Learn more about my services at Accidental CEO and start designing a life you love today.
