149. Seven Signs You’re in High-Functioning Burnout

What was meant to be a little pause turned into almost a year and a half off the mic.
August 2024 to October 2025.
Time is fake, apparently.

In this catch-up episode, I share where I’ve been, why I chose life (again and again) over momentum, and how I rebuilt my days around values that actually feel like mine, even when it meant letting go of things that once defined me.

If you’ve ever felt torn between who you’re “supposed” to be and the life you actually want, this one’s a full-blown compass reset.

TOPICS & TANGENTS:
• The unexpected 18-month break and why returning mattered
• Worldschooling adventures from Washington to Brazil
• Building community and life in Colorado
• Choosing what fits instead of chasing balance
• Values vs. ideals: letting your real life show what matters
• Perfectionism as a sneaky burnout driver
• Stepping away from social media and finding peace

POINT OF THE STORY:
Regulation isn’t about perfect calm.
It’s about choosing what matters when it costs you something, over and over again.
When your values get honest, your life gets simpler.

🎁 RELAUNCH GIVEAWAY (10/29–10/31):
Get free access to The Energy Advantage mini training (under 15 minutes!), where I share the exact framework I used to double my energy, work less frantically, and actually end my days with something left in the tank.

How to get instant access:
1️⃣ Leave a review for Shamelessly Ambitious on Apple Podcasts or Spotify
2️⃣ Screenshot your review
3️⃣ Upload it using the short form 

Once you do, you’ll get immediate access to:
From Constant Exhaustion to Overflowing Energy, The Fastest Way High-Achieving Women Can Reclaim Their Capacity in 2025

Rooting for you, your way, always 🖤

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MORE ABOUT ASH
I am the definition of duality — I swear like a sailor and break rules like it’s my job, but I also hold incredible space for my clients and work my ass off to help them achieve the success they’re after. But I'm also here for the non-preneur woman, too. My background in counseling gives me a unique perspective on what it means to show up, serve, & create connection for those who feel like they've never belonged before.

LINKS:

• Become the Regulated Woman
• Get emails that feel like your best friend (if your best friend was a therapist and actually told you the truth).
• Use code BB20 to get The Burnout Breakthrough for only $7
• Follow me on IG (dropping in once a quarter for updates & gossip)
• Website: ashmcdonaldmentoring.com

Work with me 1:1

• Therapeutic Mentorship
• Business Therapy (therapy + strategic mentorship)
...