Do you ever feel exhausted, bored, or unsure about your next step?

I’ve been hearing this a lot lately: “I’m burnt out and don’t know what to do.”

A man running a $12 million business came to me feeling this way. Like many early entrepreneurs, he was stuck reacting to whatever was most urgent. If it wasn’t on fire, it didn’t get his attention — including the important things like his marriage and his own well-being.

Burnout often happens when you’re living in that “in-between” space — not fully present anywhere because you haven’t created clear systems and boundaries. Inside this one coaching conversation was an opportunity to work on his team systems, operations, mission, and more.

In our coaching session, we slowed down and I asked him my usual question: “What would make this a 10 out of 10 conversation for you today?” That is the value of having a strategic conversation. To get clarity on your next best step.

Once we got clear, he said: “I want to get weekly time in the woods and have intentional time with my wife.”

We built a simple plan for both. He put a sacred time on the calendar for both and I reflected back on how in various seasons Jessica and I have had the Sunday night “State of the Union” I have used throughout the seasons and wrote about it several years ago. Seven questions for intentional time with your marriage.

1. How do you feel about our marriage right now?
2. What went well this past week?
3. What was a challenge this past week?
4. What support do you need from me?
5. What does a meaningful week look like to you?
6. How can I pray for you and your relationship with God?
7. What is essential for our family calendar this week?

Try blocking out intentional time with your wife this week to connect and get on the same page. You might be surprised how much closer it brings you. Reminds me of my conversation with Tim and Kathy Bush and why having the ongoing hard conversations are essential to intimacy. Tim and Kathy rebuilt their life, business, and marriage after burnout. You can listen to our previous conversation, Sex on the First Date.

I’m grateful you took time to read this today. If you’ll apply even one piece of it, it will help you lead wholeheartedly — both at work and at home.

Be Strong, Lantz Howard ​​​​​

PS. Every week I work privately with Christian CEOs and executives who are serious about winning at home as much as they win at work. My clients see real results — more peace, a stronger marriage, better teams, and in many cases, significant revenue growth. When you're ready, let's talk and ask me anything about — 1:1 coaching, The Arena Mastermind, or a Strategic Planning Day.

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