Project managers are the engine that keeps teams, timelines, and targets running smoothly. But in the rush to meet deadlines and deliver results, their own well-being often takes a back seat.
1. Set Boundaries—And Actually Stick to Them
One of the biggest burnout triggers? Lack of boundaries. Valerie offers a powerful metaphor: “Be like Chick-fil-A.” The fast food chain is famously closed on Sundays—no exceptions—because it aligns with their values.
Project managers should do the same. If you value family time, deep focus, or wellness, your calendar should reflect that. Set boundaries, communicate them clearly, and reinforce them consistently.
And don’t forget: boundaries also apply to how you use your tools. “Preschedule emails, use AI for planning, send agendas early,” says Michele. “These tools aren’t just tech—they’re energy savers.”
2. Don’t Max Yourself Out
As the glue holding teams together, it’s easy to lose sight of your own limits.
Michele calls out the emotional toll: “We’re constantly assessing others. But in doing that, we max out our own capacity.”
Valerie warns of “power overdose”—when you push past your physical, mental, and emotional limits so long that even rest doesn’t restore you.
Solution: protect your internal bandwidth. Take short pauses to reflect, process, and breathe. You’re not a machine—you’re a human.
3. Communicate with Care
When pressure is high, your words carry even more weight.
Michele recommends “bite-sized conversations”—small, intentional check-ins that prevent overwhelm and foster clarity.
Lost your cool? Circle back. Apologize. Reset. “It’s not about excuses,” she says. “It’s about reality and accountability.”
Valerie emphasizes the need for daily “pressure release valves.” Whether it’s a quiet moment, a walk, or a stretch—those micro-breaks keep you grounded and emotionally available for your team.
4. You Don’t Have to Know Everything
Perfectionism, anxiety, and decision fatigue are common for project managers. But trying to be the all-knowing fixer only leads to cognitive overload.
The antidote? Curiosity.
Instead of jumping to conclusions, ask questions. Stay open. Understand the why behind the challenge.
“Curiosity creates psychological safety,” says Michele. It invites collaboration—and protects your own mental clarity.
5. Stay Flexible When Things Go Off-Track
Project managers thrive on control—but projects rarely go as planned. Scope creep, delays, and pivots are inevitable.
“Flexibility isn’t failure—it’s a strength,” says Michele. “Let go when needed. Step back. Breathe.”
Keep perspective. The project isn’t a reflection of your worth. It’s a moving target—and your ability to adapt is a superpower.
6. Lead with Care—But Not at Your Own Expense
Project managers don’t just run the project—they set the tone.
“Model what you preach,” says Michele. “If I want care and check-ins, I have to lead with that.”
Managing diverse personalities and remote teams can be emotionally exhausting. Don’t hide that truth—name it. Talk to peers. Ask for advice. Normalize connection.
“You’re not alone in your experience,” Michele reminds us. “Curate healthy relationships—they’re your lifeline.”
7. Delegate, Don’t Drown
Yes, you can do it all—but should you?
“Delegation is not weakness,” Michele says. “It’s strategic.”
Valerie adds, “Repeat this: I cannot solve every problem.” Let it sink in. Empower your team. Share the load. That’s real leadership.
8. Make Mental Health a Daily Habit
Balance isn’t built overnight. Mental health isn’t a luxury—it’s a lifestyle.
Michele’s go-to reset? “Chopping garlic. Seriously. It clears my head.” She also swears by a simple five-minute formula: laugh, hydrate, stretch.
These rituals aren’t flashy—but they work. And they add up.
Valerie reinforces this: “Even five minutes between meetings makes a difference. Shift from relentless productivity to sustainable performance.”
And remember: when you pause, you give others permission to pause too.
Final Thought
Mental health isn’t a side quest—it’s your foundation. As a project manager, your well-being is your most valuable resource. Protect it fiercely. Model it visibly.
Because when you care for yourself, you’re not just managing projects. You’re leading by example—and that’s what real impact looks like.