In this episode, I explore how a classic concept from operations - the Theory of Constraints - can help us better understand and manage emotional exhaustion in the workplace.
The central idea? Just like a production process is only as fast as its slowest step, our mental and emotional energy is limited by the most draining tasks in our day. So what if we could identify the specific moments, meetings, or tasks that wear us out the most—our emotional bottlenecks?
Drawing on Goldratt’s foundational work, I walk through how this theory can be adapted to workplace wellbeing. I also tackle some key challenges:
-
How do emotions spill over between employees?
-
Why is simply “moving the problem” unethical?
-
What does the "Eat That Frog" rule get wrong when it comes to mental health?
We’ll look at tools like interviews, observation, and intuitive reflection to pinpoint those draining moments—and explore how to design more sustainable workdays without pushing people to the edge.
Whether you're a leader, a coach, or someone simply trying to manage your energy better, this episode offers a practical lens for viewing burnout through the eyes of process thinking.
#burnout #emotionalexhaustion #theoryofconstraints #mentalhealthatwork #employeeexperience #workplacewellbeing #processmanagement #leadership #emotionalintelligence #jobdemands #managementpodcast #productivity #eatthatfrog #podcast
Popular Podcasts
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!