From burnout to balance: How I let go, stepped up, and took control of my business

My business was growing faster than I could keep up with, and I was completely overwhelmed.

On paper, we were successful – two major acquisitions, a full office renovation, and a team that relied on me – but behind the scenes, I was burnt out and stuck in the doing.

I was so busy trying to control every little thing that I couldn’t see the bigger picture.

While I was spending a lot of time “doing things”, I wasn’t investing it wisely.

That’s where I wanted to be, only I wasn’t there yet.

With that in mind, I decided to invest in myself, find a coach, and tap into the clarity an outside view could provide me.

It helped me shift my mindset, redefine my role as the CEO, build out the executive leadership team and support structures, and let go of the chaos I was holding onto.

I went from being overwhelmed by the details to leading with vision and purpose.

1. Shifting my mindset: From busy to productive

For the longest time, I thought being busy meant I was succeeding.

If I wasn’t doing something every second of the day, I felt guilty.

I had to stop and ask myself: “Where am I truly valuable?”

The truth was, I wasn’t valuable ordering paper for the printer or micromanaging tasks that my team could handle.

My value lay in leading, growing, and building a business that didn’t rely on me for every tiny detail.

This mindset shift changed everything.

I stepped back from the “doing” and focused on where I add the most value: recruitment, vision, and strategy.

I stopped trying to prove my worth by how busy I was and started prioritising my time and energy.

2. Building structure that works

Once I let go of the chaos, I realised my business needed structure to run without me hovering over every task.

Here’s what I did:

• Hired an EA: The first one wasn’t the right fit initially, but I did learn how to delegate again. Now, I have an exceptional EA who keeps everything on track and allows me to focus on the big picture.

• Elevated my office manager: By stepping her up into a senior leadership role, I gave her room to grow and took tasks off my plate.

• Centralised our operations: We consolidated two businesses, streamlined systems, and we’re launching our third super office under our new brand, LJ Hooker Property Experience, this year.

Finally, I realised that building the right team – and trusting them – was the key to freedom.

3. Stepping into my role as a leader

I had to learn how to lead, not just manage.

I stopped being the bottleneck and started empowering my team to step up.

It’s not always easy to let go, but here’s the reality: when you trust your people, they show you just how capable they are.

The leadership lesson I live by now? “Hire the best people and get out of their way.”

It’s a game changer.

I’ve also learnt that my role isn’t just to run a business – it’s about leading from the front.

I started building my profile as the face of the business, putting out content that highlights our team’s success, our growth, and our values.

This shift has been powerful.

It’s helped attract talent, open conversations with potential clients, and position us as leaders in our market.

4. Creating space for the big picture

When I stopped being “busy”, I gave myself space to think, plan, and grow.

I’ve stopped “spending time” and now I “invest” it wisely.

That’s where the magic happens.

Today, we’re gunning for 10,000 properties under management in 10 years, with a $10 million net profit.

It’s a big goal, but it’s clear, focused, and achievable because I’m no longer drowning in the day-to-day.

5. Investing in myself

Coaching wasn’t just an investment in my business – it was an investment in me.

I’ve learnt the importance of taking time to plan, to grow, and to connect with like-minded professionals.

Whether it’s through one-on-one coaching or attending industry events, investing in myself has helped me lead with confidence and purpose.

The takeaway: Let go to step up

If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or burnt out, here’s what I’ve learnt:

• Your worth isn’t measured by how busy you are.

• The right systems and team can give you freedom to lead.

• Stepping back allows you to see – and build – the bigger picture.

I’ve taken control of my mindset, my business, and my future.

I went from burnt out and overloaded to leading a team I’m proud of and building a business I love.

If you’re ready to stop being busy and start being effective, I promise – there’s a better way.

It starts with giving yourself permission to lead.

Rebecca Halton is the CEO and director of LJ Hooker Property Experience, has grown her business to 20 agents, 3,500 doors under management, and made the shift from burnout to balance.