If you’ve known me for a while, you might be surprised by this: I’m an introvert at heart.

Yes, I love being in the room with other inspiring women. I love sharing stories, building relationships, and creating spaces where connections can bloom. But all of that takes energy, especially for someone like me who needs quiet time to recharge.

Over the last quarter of 2024, I’ve been quietly stepping back from events and networking. And let me tell you ... it was and still is super hard. When you’re someone who thrives on connection and even leads your own networking group, choosing not to show up feels strange. Like you're missing out. Like you’re letting others down.

But I’ve realized something: honoring your own bandwidth is not only okay, it’s necessary.

What Networking Burnout Looks Like

Networking burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes, it looks like:

Dreading another RSVP
Feeling like you have to “perform” instead of authentically connect
Needing hours (or days) to recover after one event
Saying “yes” when your inner voice is quietly whispering “please, not this time”

And the truth is, going to all the events, leading communities, and constantly pouring into others is a huge mental load. Even when you love it. Even when it’s your job.

So I’ve been leaning into a new rhythm. One that still values connection but also deeply respects capacity.

How I’m Protecting My Energy

Here’s what’s been helping me say “yes” more intentionally and protect my peace in the process:

Quiet time before events: Even 20 minutes of silence with a warm cup of coffee does wonders.
Affirmation cards: My go-to before stepping into a space. (Yes, even as the host!). Snag these affirmation cards perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders and women in business.
Pre-planning: Knowing where I’m going, what I’m walking into, and what my boundaries are.
Grace: Letting go of guilt when I need to say no.

Staying Connected Without Burnout

Just because I’m not showing up in person doesn’t mean I’m not showing up in other ways. There are so many simple, intentional things we can do to support one another without being physically present:

Send a handwritten note or a quick email if you see someone being celebrated
Drop a short text or voice memo that simply says, “Thinking of you—hope you’re doing well.”
Share someone’s post or thought on social media to amplify their voice
Invite someone for a casual walk-and-talk (no name tags required)

These small gestures still build meaningful connections. They remind people that you’re there. That you care. And sometimes, that’s more impactful than showing up to another event with a name tag and coffee in hand.

Let’s Normalize Rest as a Form of Connection

If you’re reading this and feeling like you're in the same place, burnt out, stretched thin, unsure how to keep up, I see you.

You don’t have to do it all. You’re still a connector. You’re still a leader. You’re still a cheerleader for your community. And maybe the most beautiful connections come from those moments when we show up for others in quiet, thoughtful ways.

This season has reminded me that real networking isn’t just about being seen. It’s about being present, and sometimes, presence looks like a note, a nudge, or a pause.