At Thrive Global, in honor of International Women’s Day, we’re inviting women business leaders to share how they Thrive.
Thrive Global: What’s the best advice that you would give women about preventing burnout?
Janis Fratamico: You need to prioritize you. I’m selfish — I never miss a workout, an outing with my girlfriends, or a manicure. Being “selfish” makes me more selfless — nicer, less angry, and less stressed. And LOVE what you do. Embrace and accept the 80/20 rule. Every job has a 20% “suckage” factor. No matter what you do or who you are — playing for the Yankees, singing on Broadway, or filing taxes — 20% will suck. Accept that. But if the scales tip and it’s more that 20, it’s time for a change.
TG: What’s important in your life outside of work? What helps you thrive? With a demanding schedule, how do you make time for these important things?
JF: I keep picking new challenges: running a half marathon, biking 100 miles, rowing. I sign up so I have to do it and it gives me something to feel proud of as I age and something to model for my daughters. That and my girlfriends — in the end, our girlfriends are EVERYTHING. These are “have-tos” not “want-tos,” so I always make time.
TG: What obstacles have you overcome in your career, particularly obstacles that had to do with your gender? What did you learn from those experiences that you wish you’d known before?
JF: I need to get better at this. I was recently passionate about something and expressed it professionally, and was called “emotional and upset.” I should have called him out then and there, as he never would have said that if I were a man.
TG: How do you prioritize when you have an overwhelming amount to do?
JF: I just don’t do stuff. Or I don’t do it very well. And the world keeps turning… I’m very comfortable with a very high level of imperfection.
TG: When you notice you’re getting too stressed, what do you do to course correct?
JF: A good workout or a good shower cry.
TG: How do you reframe negative thinking so you can feel “unstuck” and move forward?
JF: Music, Netflix, and girlfriends.
TG: Are there any small actions (or life “hacks”) that you swear by to help you prioritize, focus, connect with others, get solid sleep, or incorporate movement and nutrition into your life? Share any and all!
JF: I sleep in my workout clothes, so I get up ready and feeling like I have to follow through. No one will take them off to get in the shower. You’ll get on the Peloton or take an early class and power through.