Think of it as having a backup generator; when things get stressful, instead of losing capacity and productivity, you bring in the backup generator of over-functioning. 

You see the mess after you get off work. For every over-function, there is also an under-function. It’s like a mega hangover that you get after work, where you smoke, binge, and drink.

But at work:  

• You’re still productive
• You’re still competent
• You’re still “fine”

Many women don’t realize they’re burnt out in the beginning because they can still function. 

Even admitting you’re burnt out feels unhelpful because it feels like you have no other option but to quit your job.  

Which is why you fantasize so much about taking that 6-month unpaid leave. How about we talk before that?

Because you know that after every trip, your crankiness about coming back increases. Even when you’re on your big trip, you’re still thinking of how much time you have until you have to go back.