Episode Summary
Burnout gets a lot of attention in the workplace, but what about boredom?
In this episode, I explore the other reason high performers quietly leave organizations they once loved: underutilization. I'll walk you through real stories from leaders I've worked with, share insights from my national research, and break down the Stretch Capacity™ framework to help you create growth opportunities without overwhelming your team.
You'll learn:
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Why "not feeling stretched" can lead to disengagement and turnover
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How leaders can provide challenge, autonomy, and advancement (even during tough times)
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The link between trust, innovation, and stretch
Whether you lead a team of two or two thousand, this episode will help you rethink how you support and retain your top talent.
🎧 Listen in and ask yourself: are your people truly burned out… or just bored?
00:00 Introduction to Stretch Capacity
00:27 Understanding Stretch Capacity Zones
00:46 The Importance of Stretching Even in Burnout
01:14 Real-Life Examples of Stretching at Work
02:12 The Consequences of Not Stretching Employees
03:44 Encouraging Innovation and Growth
04:19 Personal Stories of Seeking Growth
05:08 Final Thoughts on Stretch Capacity
06:16 Conclusion and Call to Action
Ready to help your team grow without burning out—or fading out?
If you're seeing signs of disengagement, turnover, or missed potential, it might not be burnout—it might be boredom. The right kind of stretch could make all the difference.
Prefer to start with a resource?
Download my Leadership & Engagement Blueprint—a practical, research-backed guide for helping teams thrive with trust, innovation, and stretch.
And follow along for more insights on resilience, performance, and workplace happiness:
Instagram @speakmichelle & @bethehappyist
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