What do you do when you’re burning out—but you don’t want to lose the things that matter most, like faith and family? In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Rijken to talk about navigating burnout, shifting seasons of leadership, and holding onto what truly lasts.

Ryan shares his journey from ministry into higher education, the toll of burnout on his life, and the lessons he’s learned about creating healthier rhythms for himself, his family, and his team. Together, we unpack what it looks like to step away without giving up, and how to protect your soul in the process.

If you’re in a season where the weight feels heavy and you’re craving change, here are 3 tools to help you make a shift without letting go of what matters most:

1. Redefine Success – Instead of measuring your worth by output or busyness, ask: Does this choice align with my faith and values? This keeps your focus on what matters most, not just what demands the most.
2. Set Rhythms, Not Just Boundaries – Boundaries are important, but rhythms create sustainable patterns. Protect your time for rest, worship, and family by building it into your calendar as non-negotiable, not optional.
3. Find Safe Community – Burnout grows in isolation. Invite mentors, counselors, or trusted friends into your journey. Let them remind you of your purpose when exhaustion makes you forget.

Ryan’s story reminds us that seasons of transition don’t mean failure—they can actually be an invitation to deeper faith, healthier leadership, and a more grounded life.

🛠 Stop–Start–Stay Check-In: 

When you feel burnout creeping in, pause and ask yourself three questions:

1. Stop – What’s one thing draining me right now that I can stop doing, even temporarily?
2. Start – What’s one small practice I can start that restores me (prayer, rest, walk, laughter with family)?
3. Stay – What’s one thing that truly matters—faith, family, calling—that I will stay committed to no matter the pressure?

Write these three down each week (or talk them out with a friend) and use them to guide your choices. It’s a simple reset that helps you shift without losing what matters most.

Ryan's Recommended Resources:

• Praying Like Monks, Living Like Fools by Tyler Staton
• The Seven Primal Questions framework by Mike Foster

✨ If you’re walking through burnout, or feel stuck after burnout - this conversation will give you hope that you don’t have to choose between leading well and protecting what you love most.

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