Burnout Suvivor and Chief of Staff and Operations - Mercer-Mckay Digital Storytelling

In February of 2018, I suffered a major burnout. As a chronic high-achiever and people-pleaser, I got sucked into the craziness of life. I was stuck in what I thought I should be doing, trying to be the "best Mom," "best wife," "best employee," and the list goes on. That winter, it became evident that I could not sustain that lifestyle.

I began my career at Microsoft in 1996 interning, then taking contract positions, and eventually employed full time for 17 years primarily working with, and developing, Partners within Microsoft’s ecosystem. I led multiple teams to successfully deliver on cross-company initiatives and helped build-out and pioneer Microsoft’s approach to co-selling with Partners. I reached a career pinnacle in 2016 when I earned Microsoft’s prestigious Platinum Circle of Excellence for Outstanding Achievement award. I was one of only five people chosen in the Canadian subsidiary that year - and the only woman. My drive and determination got me there, but at what cost? I was, and in many ways still am a workaholic.

Through my recovery I’ve found tools and habits to help quiet down my life and am now committed to helping others to do the same. My life is still full and busy, as I am currently a part of the Leadership team at Mercer-MacKay Storytelling, Program Manager for The WIT Network, a Reiki Practitioner, proud hockey mom and am building out a mindset practice. I’m wearing more hats than ever before, and I’m not perfect at it but I have found a way to be more present, centered and enjoy the moment! That’s what we are here for.

You can find more info at www.julielaf.com