We live in a world that thrives on performance. From our workplaces to our homes—and especially in ministry—the expectation to always be at the top of our game can be overwhelming. For women in leadership, this pressure often feels multiplied, as we juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, all while keeping up the appearance of having it all together.
But at what cost?
The Weight of Expectations
The pressure to perform comes from many sources—family, colleagues, society, and sometimes, even ourselves. It tells us that we are only valuable when we are producing results, meeting standards, and checking off to-do lists. Unfortunately, this mindset shifts our focus from our inherent worth to what we can do or give.
When we constantly strive to meet these expectations, it can have serious effects on our mental and emotional health. The pressure to always “be on” leads to:
Burnout: Constantly running on empty while trying to fulfill everyone’s needs will eventually deplete you. Burnout happens when we overextend ourselves for too long without adequate rest or support.
Anxiety: The fear of failure or of letting others down can create a continuous state of stress and anxiety. This can make even simple tasks feel monumental, leaving us feeling trapped in a cycle of worry.
Low Self-Worth: When we tie our worth to how well we perform, a mistake or failure can lead to feelings of inadequacy. Suddenly, we feel "not enough," even when we’re giving our best.
How to Reclaim Your Peace
So how do we break free from the performance trap and protect our mental and emotional well-being?
Redefine Success: Success isn’t about perfection; it’s about progress. Set boundaries that reflect realistic goals and priorities. It's okay to not have it all together every moment of every day.
Embrace Grace: God's love and acceptance are not based on what you do, but on who you are. Rest in the fact that you don’t have to earn His approval or anyone else’s. Allow grace to be your guide, not the world’s demands.
Practice Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Incorporate moments of rest and restoration into your daily life. Whether it's prayer, a walk, or simply sitting in silence, create space for your soul to recharge.
Seek Support: Community is vital. Share your struggles with trusted friends, mentors, or a counselor who can offer encouragement and perspective. You are not alone on this journey.
Final Thoughts
The pressure to perform may be real, but it doesn't have to control your life. You are more than your accomplishments and responsibilities. By prioritizing mental health and embracing who you are in Christ, you can let go of the need to perform and begin to live from a place of peace and wholeness.
Remember, it’s okay to slow down. You are enough, just as you are.
What are some ways you’ve managed the pressure to perform? I’d love to hear your thoughts and strategies in the comments.
About La Tanya D. Walker, M.E.d.
La Tanya D. Walker, M.Ed., is a dynamic and emerging leader passionate about empowering women and girls. She is a Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern and Certified Christian Counselor, with a Master of Education in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. La Tanya is also the founder and CEO of The EmpowHERed Woman Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to mental health advocacy, education, ministry, and change for high-performing women leading in ministry and in the marketplace. Learn more about La Tanya or connect with her for private support at www.AuthenticPerspectivescc.com
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