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Lessons In Leadership: How (Not) to Die on the Job


Stressed worker
How to lead without the risk of burnout

It is 2025 and the world of work has morphed into a hybrid beast, demanding more agility, resilience, and authenticity than ever before. We're juggling remote teams, navigating constant technological disruptions, and facing unprecedented levels of burnout. But amidst the pressure to adapt and excel, there's a crucial lesson many leaders are still learning the hard way: how not to die on the job.  

And I don't just mean physically.

I'm talking about that slow, insidious death of passion, of purpose, of the very spark that ignited your leadership journey in the first place. I'm talking about the feeling of being trapped in a cycle of endless to-do lists, meetings, and performance reviews, while your soul quietly withers. I'm talking about the crushing weight of carrying on when your inner voice is screaming for change.

I know this terrain intimately. For fourteen years, I was that leader, driven by a relentless pursuit of success and recognition. I built a thriving communications company in Amsterdam, London and Los Angeles. I achieved industry accolades and earned a reputation for both excellent work, and resilience. But beneath the surface? I was slowly dying.


Leadership Starts with Leading Yourself


Twenty-seven hospital stays, a ten-day coma, triple heart bypass surgery, cancer, and countless other health battles later, I finally learned the lesson that almost cost me everything: true leadership starts with leading yourself.

It was a journey of painful awakenings and radical transformations. It was through the crucible of illness and burnout that I discovered the power of vulnerability, the importance of self-care, and the transformative potential of pursuing your passions. I found my calling in empowering others, not through the sterile boardroom or the impersonal Zoom call, but through the vibrant connective tissue of community in live events. 

There's something magical about the best conferences, festivals and owned events, isn’t there? The palpable buzz of shared learning, the spark of inspiration that ignites in a room full of engaged minds, the authentic connections forged in moments of shared purpose. 

I’ve witnessed first hand how sharing my expertise in shaping reputation, and my passion for hosting conferences to create moments of community, can transform lives and drive business success. It worked for me. It was only once I had shaken off a role which no longer suited me, that I was ready to embrace my second wind. At the end of last year, I partnered with former US-based collaborators to co-found a reputation management company, https://www.hey-aka.com/.  

My advice? Have the courage to embrace your passions, the resilience to overcome challenges, and the wisdom to prioritize your well-being. These are the very lessons I want to share with you.


1. Listen to Your Body (and Your Gut): 

In a world obsessed with productivity and "hustle culture," it's easy to dismiss those subtle signs of stress and exhaustion. The nagging headache, the persistent fatigue, the growing sense of dread – these are not mere inconveniences; they are urgent messages from your body and mind. Learn to recognize the signals and respond accordingly. Whether it's taking a mental health day, setting boundaries, or seeking professional help, prioritize your well-being. These days, self-care isn't a luxury; it should be non-negotiable.

2. Build Your A-Team: 

Leadership is not a solo sport. It's a team effort, a symphony of diverse talents and perspectives working in harmony. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, believe in you, and challenge you to be your best. This includes mentors, coaches, healthcare professionals, and a trusted circle of friends and family. Don't be afraid to ask for help, delegate tasks, and lean on your support system when needed. 

In my partners at Also Known As (AKA), I find collaboration and a meeting of minds. This fuels me throughout my week, in every facet of my career, whether it’s working with a Fortune 500 CMO on positioning and stage presence, or hosting a film and television industry conference.  

3. Embrace Vulnerability: 

For far too long, I equated vulnerability with weakness. I hid my health struggles, pushed through pain, and pretended everything was fine. But true strength lies in acknowledging your limitations, asking for support. Vulnerability is a superpower. If you are open about challenges - whatever they may be - and share your struggles, you can connect with others on a deeper level. This vulnerability can build trust in your leadership and create a culture of empathy and support within your organization. 

4. Find Your Joy (and Follow It): 

This is perhaps the most crucial lesson of all. For too long, I stayed in a job that brought me success but no longer ignited my passion. I was good at it, respected for it, but was it what I wanted anymore? It wasn't until I finally had the necessity (for my health) and courage (for my heart) to step away that I started to thrive. 

What lights you up? What makes you excited to get out of bed in the morning? Lean into those passions, and watch your interactions as a leader improve. When you lead from a place of happiness and purpose, your energy becomes contagious, inspiring those around you to reach their full potential. 

5. Embrace Radical Change: 

The world is in constant flux. Technological advancements, shifting market dynamics, and evolving societal values demand that we adapt and grow as leaders. Sometimes, the best way to lead yourself is to make a bold move. Leaving the FINCH factor in 2023 after being sick with burnout (a company I founded singlehandedly back in 2009) was the scariest and most liberating decision I ever made. It allowed me to rediscover my purpose, prioritize my well-being, and create a life aligned with my values. 

Don't be afraid to shake things up, step outside your comfort zone, and embrace new opportunities. Adaptability is key. Be open to change and innovation in your leadership journey.


This Matters Now More Than Ever

The demands on leaders are intensifying. If you're going to thrive in this new era, you need to be firing on all cylinders – physically, mentally, and emotionally. By prioritizing your well-being, pursuing your passions, and building a strong support system, you'll not only survive but truly lead and inspire others – with veracity and energy. 

Don't wait until you're forced to make a change. Don't let your health, colleagues, collaborators or competitors steal your joy. Start leading yourself today, and watch your impact, on your company and your future, soar. 



The Finch Factor's Kerrie Finch
AKA's Kerrie Finch

Kerrie Finch is the co-founder of Also Known As, a reputation management firm for creative companies, brands and executives, with offices in Europe and the US.


Kerrie brings three decades of experience in strategic communications, corporate story-mining and brand positioning to shine a light on clients, so they are seen and heard as global thought leaders.

 

Kerrie is an accomplished public speaker and has been a host, emcee and panel moderator for some of the world’s biggest conferences, including Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, CICLOPE (Berlin), Dutch Media Week (Amsterdam), FOCUS (London), Global Marketing Summit (Istanbul), and SXSW (Austin). She is also the founder of SheSays Amsterdam and an alumni of award-winning advertising agency, Wieden+Kennedy.








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