Marc Cooper Shares How Important It Is for Leaders To Combat Burnout Among High-Achieving Banking Professionals

How To Rekindle That Spark In High-Achieving Banking Professionals

by CEO Marc Cooper

In the financial world, high-performers power business success with their dedication, ingenuity and drive. Yet even superstars fall into ruts: Energy wanes, creativity dims, and motivation falters.

In my experience, these moments are rarely about diminished ability. More often, they are the cumulative toll of prolonged stress, monotony or exhaustion. The challenge for leaders is to recognize when their top banking professionals need time to recharge to help them continue to thrive.

Recognize The Need For Rest

Ironically, the distinguishing traits of these exceptional achievers also leave them vulnerable to burnout. In my experience, they tend to be self-directed and goal-oriented, investing immense energy to close the next big deal, and often tie their sense of self-worth to professional accomplishments. These characteristics can create a fragile balance, and when that balance is off—due to overwork or a lack of self-care—their performance can decline.

Talented bankers and executives in the business world are a lot like elite athletes. To survive long-term in any competitive arena, people must take a break from time to time. Sustained success isn’t the result of endless grinding. It comes from knowing when to step back and recharge.

Set The Example

I make a point to disconnect and reset for a few days each quarter. While this may be difficult for some, I have found I consistently return to my team a sharper and more focused leader, ready to tackle the next set of challenges. It’s crucial to lead by example, and I encourage my team to do the same. Rest should be a priority and should not be mistaken for a sign of weakness.

A long, successful career—especially in banking—requires one to learn how to switch off mentally from work. Outlets such as bicycling, golf, reading, cooking or even binge-watching a favorite series aren’t just indulgences; they provide essential mental escapes that replenish energy and creativity.

In my personal experience, I have also found my morning workout a necessary tool to keep my head clear and to foster innovative thinking. Studies consistently show that physical activity can enhance productivity, focus and overall well-being. Leaders can create a culture of wellness by providing employees with time and resources to stay active.

An often overlooked aspect of combating burnout also involves redefining success. High-achievers who link their self-worth solely to professional accomplishments risk long-term dissatisfaction or even disillusionment.

At Solomon Partners, we emphasize a “work to live” ethos, encouraging our team to invest in relationships with family, friends and their communities, as these connections foster true fulfillment, greater resilience and a broader sense of satisfaction.

Shaking up routines is another way to reignite a star banker’s spark. Repetitiveness breeds stagnation. By taking on stretch projects, or moving into entirely new roles, finance professionals benefit from fresh energy and new excitement in their careers. Transitioning to a CEO role required rapid adaptation, reinvigorating my passion for problem solving and leadership.

Position Your Team To Thrive

Managing your best bankers requires more than setting ambitious goals. You need to understand their limits and provide strategies to help them thrive.

Recognize when your most essential players need a break, encourage them to explore new interests, and help them maintain a healthy balance between work and life. By doing so, you will not only rekindle their creative spark but also build a more resilient, innovative and fulfilled team—one primed for exceptional performance.

The information provided here is not investment, tax or financial advice. You should consult with a licensed professional for advice concerning your specific situation. This article originally appeared on Forbes.com.