In recent years, the phrase “lean in” has become a rallying cry for women’s advancement in the workplace. Coined by Sheryl Sandberg in her book, it encourages women to embrace their careers ambitiously and strive for leadership roles. However, another concept has been emerging, one that acknowledges the importance of mental health and well-being over relentless career pursuits: “lean out.” In this blog, we will explore the idea of “lean out” from a psychological perspective, examining the reasons women may choose to step back from high-stress careers to prioritize their mental health and well-being.

Before delving into “lean out,” it’s crucial to understand the context in which it has emerged. In recent years, the discussion surrounding burnout has gained significant traction, particularly among working women. Burnout, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed. It is characterized by feelings of energy depletion, increased mental distance from one’s job, and reduced professional efficacy.

Research indicates that women are disproportionately affected by burnout. Several factors contribute to this gender disparity:

-The Double Burden: Women often carry a “double burden” of both professional responsibilities and domestic work, leading to increased stress and exhaustion.

-Workplace Inequities: Gender inequalities in the workplace, such as the gender pay gap and limited access to leadership positions, can create additional stressors for women.

-Lack of Support: Insufficient support systems and workplace policies for mothers, such as inadequate maternity leave and childcare facilities, can exacerbate stress levels.

- Societal Expectations: Societal expectations and stereotypes can place immense pressure on women to excel both at work and in their roles as caregivers.

The “Lean Out” Movement In response to the burnout epidemic, some women are choosing to “lean out” of their high-stress careers, putting their mental health and well-being first. This decision is often driven by a combination of factors. Women are acknowledging the severe consequences of burnout on their mental and physical health. Chronic stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and even physical ailments. Many women are reassessing their values and priorities, realizing that relentless career advancement may not align with their well-being and happiness. Leaning out allows women to regain control over their work-life balance, reduce stress, and spend more time on self-care and personal interests. By taking a step back, women can set an example of prioritizing mental health and well-being, challenging societal expectations.

“Leaning Out” From a psychological perspective or choosing to “lean out” can have several positive effects. Stepping away from high-stress careers can lead to a significant reduction in chronic stress, promoting overall mental well-being. “Leaning out” allows women to allocate more time and energy to self-care activities, such as exercise, mindfulness, and hobbies. Regaining control over one’s schedule and priorities can empower women, boosting their sense of autonomy and self-efficacy. “Leaning out” often involves building stronger support networks, which can provide emotional validation and encouragement.

Navigating “Lean Out” Mindfully, while “leaning out” can offer numerous psychological benefits, it is essential to approach this decision mindfully. Take time to reflect on your values, priorities, and long-term goals. Understand why you are considering “leaning out”. Assess the financial implications of reducing work hours or changing careers. Ensure that you have a financial plan in place. Openly communicate your decision with your partner, family, and close friends to garner their support. If you choose to “lean out” by reducing work hours or changing careers, plan a smooth professional transition and maintain connections in your industry. Prioritize self-care and well-being as you transition. Explore mindfulness techniques, therapy, and other resources to support your mental health.

The concept of “leaning out” is a response to the growing recognition of the burnout epidemic among women. It underscores the importance of prioritizing mental health and well-being over relentless career pursuits. From a psychological perspective, “leaning out” can lead to reduced stress, improved self-care, enhanced autonomy, and stronger support networks. However, it should be approached mindfully, with careful consideration of personal values, financial planning, and effective communication. Ultimately, “leaning out” is a testament to the evolving understanding of work-life balance and the acknowledgment that well-being should be at the forefront of career decisions.