CEO Burnout Prevention: How Resilient Leaders Prioritize Wellness During Uncertainty

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, it brought unprecedented uncertainty, including a break in a 10-year run of economic stability. CEOs had become accustomed to a relatively consistent and predictable business environment; they knew what to expect and how to plan for it. However, the pandemic ushered in a new era marked by rapid disruption, unpredictability, and the accompanying uncertainty.

Looking back at Q2 2020, Vistage’s quarterly survey tracking CEO sentiment suddenly dropped 19.2 points from the previous quarter. A state of uncertainty and fear left many CEOs frozen in place while the specter of a sci-fi pathogen loomed. As the pandemic continued to fluctuate for years, the Index experienced significant volatility. It whipsawed from its Q2 2020 low to a peak just four quarters later, only to plunge back down exactly a year later and subsequently bottom out at the low end of its range.

After remaining relatively stable — albeit sluggish — it peaked again last December with the entry of a new administration into the Oval Office, only to reverse its gains when the federal government introduced its “on again, off again” tariffs and trade policy changes in Q1 2025.

The Rising Cost of CEO Burnout in an Unstable Landscape

Over the last five years, CEOs have been forced to navigate uncertainty and become at one with rapid change. They’ve had to throw out every book on business and reimagine what success looks like and how to achieve it. Over time, this prolonged state of disruption and uncertainty has, unsurprisingly, taken its toll on the workforce, customers and CEOs themselves, who often shoulder the brunt of the rapidly changing business environment while trying to project a demeanor of calm and decisive leadership.

It’s no wonder that nearly a quarter (24%) of respondents reported experiencing feelings of CEO burnout daily or frequently in Q2 2025, with a whopping 44% stating they occasionally feel the pressure. In open-ended responses about the causes of CEO burnout, several cited overwork, lack of delegation, long work hours and working “in” the business rather than “on” it. Many expressed they are being stretched thin due to insufficient support from their leadership teams or being responsible for multiple roles.

Some choose to bury their stress and move on, but many more are taking proactive steps to condition their body and mind to deal with the volatility and uncertainty of 2025 and beyond.

5 Resilience Training Tactics CEOs Are Using to Thrive

1. Physical Activity: CEO Fitness as a Foundation for Resilience

Nearly three-quarters (73%) of CEOs prioritize regular physical activity, which is known to relieve stress. However, while 83% agree or strongly agree that movement plays a meaningful role in improving their patience, mood and decision-making, 50% find that their schedule often interferes with their ability to exercise. CEOs must be willing to protect their calendars to ensure physical fitness is a non-negotiable part of their routine — especially when combating CEO burnout.

2. Preventative Care: Executive Health Starts with Proactive Action

Proactive health measures are key to maintaining optimal health, with 71% of CEOs agreeing that they proactively address minor health concerns before they become significant issues. Additionally, 81% report staying current with preventive health measures, including annual physicals, blood work, and screenings.

3. Diet and Nutrition: Fueling Leadership Through Smart Habits

Two-thirds (64%) of CEOs say vitamins are a key part of their preventative health routine.

4. Mental Health: Stress Relief and Recharge Strategies for CEOs

Mental health is a priority for CEOs — it’s just about finding what fits best into their schedules consistently. Indeed, 42% of CEOs intentionally schedule time to mentally recharge. Some report engaging in spiritual practices (daily prayer, attending Mass), while others highlight cognitive recovery, therapy, or meditation.

5. Sleep and Recovery: Why Rest is a Leadership Superpower

While 40% say they struggle to get the right amount of sleep, leaders widely emphasized the importance of adequate sleep and structured rest. Many CEOs are using sleep technology (e.g., Chillipad, Oura, trackers), while others rely on recovery tools (e.g., massage, sauna, cold plunge) or dedicated time to disconnect.

Prioritize Yourself to Lead Others

The business landscape is unlikely to become more predictable anytime soon. Airline flight attendants have long emphasized the importance of securing one’s own oxygen mask before assisting others. For executives, this means prioritizing their mental, physical, and emotional well-being to stay effective leaders and avoid CEO burnout in uncertain times.

This story first appeared in Inc.

Related Resources

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