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“Burnout feels like moving on autopilot. False optimism only keeps us going for a short while.” – Inspired by Sam Keen, Fire in the BellyLet’s start with three important questions:- What does burnout look like when it happens?- What are the indicators that burnout is nearby?- What are you doing about these indicators now?In a 2023 survey by Forbes, 65% of business owners reported burnout. With 30% working over 50 hours and 19% over 60 hours a week, this isn’t surprising. If you don’t want to become another statistic, it’s time to look at ways to prevent burnout, for both you and your team.Is it just me or has 2024 been a tough year? Who else is running on empty? Burnout creeps up on you gradually – you don’t notice until it’s too late. In this conversation, we’ll cover burnout, and the Mindset, Skill Set, and Activities that help prevent it. I’ll share seven practical, science-backed activities to help build resilience.What Does Burnout Look Like?Burnout can show up as:- Physical and mental fatigue- Feeling helpless, like a failure, or cynical- Insomnia, frequent headaches, and irritabilitySound familiar?Recognizing the Warning SignsBurnout indicators can be subtle at first. For me, when I was heading toward burnout, I noticed my motivation slipping, routines getting harder, and my temper shortening.&nbsp;Many of us have certain behaviours that emerge under stress. Recognizing these warning signs early can help prevent further decline.CausesGenerally, burnout results from:- Work overload and high-pressure deadlines- Ongoing conflict and lack of support- A mismatch between work tasks and personal strengths- Imbalance in work-life boundariesMindset: The Power of Stepping BackMany business owners think they’re “immune” to burnout, immersing themselves in the operational side of the business. Working IN the business can feel rewarding and urgent, but this sustained activity can drain mental energy.Taking time to plan and strategize is critical. This allows you to look ahead rather than just focusing on immediate needs. When you’re not focused on your business’s 3-5 critical success factors, it’s easy to lose direction and feel burnt out.&nbsp;Keeping the main thing the main thing helps you focus energy on what truly matters. Accepting that you are vulnerable to burnout – and that your team might be too – is crucial. Sometimes, stepping back can give you the clarity to see where help or added support is needed.A client once told me that he doesn’t wait until he’s run down to take a break. He takes short, regular breaks help him keep momentum without draining himself completely.Skill Set Needed:One word:&nbsp;“Boundaries”Set them, protect them, and make them non-negotiable. Without boundaries, no strategy will work.<figure id="figure-rhbixbatw9m3429cfx"><iframe id="rhbixbatw9m3429cfx" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dvhu2OK7ffg" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dvhu2OK7ffg" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Dvhu2OK7ffg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>7 Activities to Prevent BurnoutThe following activities can help restore balance and recharge your energy. Select the ones that resonate most with you.1. Physical Rest&nbsp; - Give your body the rest it needs. Aim for 7+ hours of good sleep, try NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest), and unwind with a massage or nature walk. Taking off your shoes and grounding in the grass for a few minutes works wonders.2. Mental Rest - Clear mental clutter by journaling for 5–10 minutes or practicing mindfulness. Focus on grounding habits that bring you back to the present and help you cope with daily demands.3. Sensory Rest - Step back from tech with the “3-2-1” approach: 3 hours before bed, no food or alcohol; 2 hours before bed, no work; and 1 hour before bed, no screens. Turn off notifications and consider greyscale mode on your phone after 8 p.m. to reduce distractions.4. Social Rest - Recharge your social battery by prioritizing meaningful connections. Say no to draining invitations and reach out to friends who lift you up. It’s perfectly okay to protect your energy by setting limits.5. Spiritual Rest - Contributing to something larger than yourself can re-energize your spirit. Whether it’s volunteering, reflecting on your purpose, or engaging in spiritual practices, these actions help you reconnect with what truly matters.6. Emotional Rest - Allow yourself to process and express emotions in a healthy way. Recognizing and acknowledging your feelings or speaking to a therapist can make a world of difference in building emotional resilience.7. Creative Rest - Stimulate your creativity by visiting museums, painting, dancing, or writing. Dive into hobbies that let your mind wander and allow you to reconnect with your creative side.Integrating These StrategiesImagine how impactful it would be if you integrated some of these strategies into your daily and weekly routines. Don’t wait for burnout to shadow your joy – take control of your energy, business, and well-being.“Relaxing brings weakness when done by a muscle; but brings strength when done by a person.” – Mokokoma MokhonoanaCoach Colin at <a data-mce-href="https://thealternativeboard.za.com/" href="https://thealternativeboard.za.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Alternative Board </a>&nbsp;Coach | Facilitator | Change Agent &nbsp;

7 strategies to avoid burnout.

The 8th annual SA Youth Solutions Exchange unfolded this week, energizing South Africa's leaders across government, business, and civil society with a shared purpose: addressing youth unemployment with tangible solutions. Organized by Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator and supported by dedicated collaborators, the event radiated a sense of urgency and innovation focused on forging a brighter future for young South Africans.In collaboration with South Africa's Project Management Office in The Presidency, Business Unity South Africa (BUSA), and the Youth Employment Service (YES), this year’s gathering emphasized a bold commitment to driving 1 million new employment opportunities by 2026. The enthusiasm at the conference was palpable, underpinned by an ambitious vision of large-scale employment for young people in the coming years.Keynote speakers Jomo Sibiya, Deputy Minister in the Department of Employment and Labour, and Justin Apsey, Unilever Southern Africa’s Managing Director and Executive Vice President, set the stage with insights underscoring the critical need for collective action to combat the youth employment crisis. Their contributions highlighted not only the weight of the challenge but also the immense potential that coordinated efforts hold to bring about meaningful change.Nicola Galombik, Executive Director at YellowWoods, encapsulated the event’s spirit of purposeful action in her closing remarks, calling on leaders across sectors to take bold steps: “We have the agenda—step up, contribute more, and lead from your position. With coordination, focused investment, and inclusive hiring, we can forge the future we envision.” Her words echoed a theme that reverberated throughout the conference—the power of committed, collaborative leadership in tackling youth unemployment.<figure id="figure-jwoch5fuusm2yuvll6"><iframe id="jwoch5fuusm2yuvll6" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xH0tyA7al1g" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xH0tyA7al1g&amp;ab_channel=HarambeeYouthEmploymentAccelerator" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/xH0tyA7al1g" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>The SA Youth Solutions Exchange 2024 proved to be an essential forum where stakeholders across sectors shared insights, exchanged best practices, and forged new partnerships to accelerate youth economic participation. It showcased the immense value of integrating both private and public sector efforts in creating sustainable pathways for youth.BUSA expressed its pride in co-hosting this vital dialogue alongside YES, Harambee, and The Presidency, emphasizing the significance of scaling unemployment solutions, aligning skills development with labor market needs, and prioritizing the inclusion of marginalized young people. Through energized discussions, participants crafted actionable strategies to open doors for young talent and address critical barriers to meaningful employment.As South Africa looks toward a future in which youth unemployment is diminished, events like the SA Youth Solutions Exchange 2024 are instrumental in driving progress. They stand as a beacon of hope, mobilizing stakeholders across sectors to contribute towards an ambitious but achievable target of 1 million new earning opportunities by 2026. This collective commitment illuminates the path forward, ensuring that young South Africans can aspire to a future filled with promise and potential, supported by a nation invested in their success.For more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://partners.sayouth.org.za/" href="https://partners.sayouth.org.za/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-mce-selected="inline-boundary">SA Youth Partner Network</a>

Catalysing youth employment in South Africa: Reflections on the SA Youth Solutions Exchange 2024

On October 25, 2024, the city of Gqeberha, Eastern Cape, witnessed the grand launch of the CapaCiTi Tech Accelerator. In partnership with the Propella Business Incubator, Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, and funded by the Jobs Fund, this initiative stands as a pillar of opportunity for the region’s youth, aiming to address the rising demand for digital skills and career-readiness in South Africa.The initiative targets young people, offering six months of intensive training in software development, including languages like JavaScript and Python, followed by six months of practical work experience with local partners. The launch saw a strong turnout, with representatives from Harambee Youth Employment Accelerator, Nasper Labs, and the Jobs Fund team, each supporting CapaCiTi’s vision of tackling youth unemployment.In her opening address, Fiona Tabraham, CEO of CapaCiTi, expressed excitement about the organization's expansion into the Eastern Cape. "Our organization is thrilled to have expanded from Cape Town and Johannesburg into new areas like the Eastern Cape," Tabraham said. “With the support of our longstanding partners and local connections, we’ve created a strong foundation to address the growing need for youth employment and career readiness in our communities.”CapaCiTi is a not-for-profit organization and part of UVU Africa, which has been operating since 1999. The organization initiated bespoke interventions to address specific areas that could unlock substantial growth, such as the CapaCiTi Digital Career Accelerator, which produces digitally skilled labor for a growing tech sector. In response to this demand, campuses were opened in Cape Town and Johannesburg to help drive the development of tech skills for the South African workforce.<figure id="figure-fm1fnhnavm2puyozc"><img id="fm1fnhnavm2puyozc" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29ONJ7BawzMxcv0wBaxvje36nGRsba2XkQkwLHZmg04KDMptrasLHiIqbVXyGxJs.png" alt="Blank soft color book standing" title="Blank soft color book standing" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Official launch of CAPACITI Tech Accelerator with Propella Business Incubator and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/29ONJ7BawzMxcv0wBaxvje36nGRsba2XkQkwLHZmg04KDMptrasLHiIqbVXyGxJs.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Official launch of CAPACITI Tech Accelerator with Propella Business Incubator and Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.</figcaption></figure>Tabraham highlighted the crucial role the initiative plays in equipping youth with both technical and professional skills, paving the way for them to enter industries like IT, architecture, and engineering. “By collaborating with over 100 businesses, we ensure our training aligns with specific industry needs, helping youth transition smoothly into the workforce," she emphasized.Vuyo Gwabeni, Director of Trade and Investment for Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality, also spoke at the launch, underscoring the city’s commitment to uplifting young people. “This city, named after Nelson Mandela, embodies his vision that ‘education is the most powerful weapon to change the world,’” Gwabeni noted. “Our city's potential is vast, yet converting it into meaningful outcomes requires a collaborative approach.” With the arrival of CapaCiTi, Gqeberha is better positioned to retain its local talent, as young people gain the skills needed to thrive in the digital economy without feeling compelled to leave for larger cities.Linda Lawries, Propella ICT Incubation Journey Facilitator, shared her gratitude for the collaborative efforts bringing the CapaCiTi Tech Accelerator to life. “Today’s event reminds me of our collective effort to uplift our city,” Lawries said, “bringing more opportunities to the Bay rather than looking only to Cape Town.” She explained how Propella’s partnerships with public and private entities support the growth of sustainable businesses and the professional development of the youth. “We’re determined to empower young leaders and ensure sustainable growth for our community,” Lawries concluded.Nazeem Hendricks, Senior Finance Specialist at the National Treasury Jobs Fund, addressed the systemic issues affecting youth employment, citing a need for skills alignment. “There seems to be a belief that the issues we face in providing job opportunities and training for young people can’t be solved,” Hendricks remarked. “Through our efforts with CapaCiTi and similar programs, we’re proving that with the right model, we can make a meaningful impact.” His comments echoed a call for a model that ensures young professionals are equipped with the skills employers genuinely need.Among the attendees was CapaCiTi alumna Yonela Futho, who shared her transformative journey with the program. “Like many young people, I struggled to find work,” Futho admitted. “But everything changed when I was introduced to CapaCiTi.” She expressed gratitude for the opportunity, not only for the technical skills she gained but also for the confidence she developed. "Being a part of CapaCiTi transformed my perspective and gave me a deeper sense of purpose,” Futho said. Now a mentor with CapaCiTi, she is passionate about helping others succeed in the same way.The event wrapped up with an air of optimism and excitement as CapaCiTi aims to close the skills gap, ensuring that youth in Gqeberha are ready for a dynamic future in the digital economy. CEO Fiona Tabraham ended her talk by inviting organizations to join them on their journey of upskilling youth with the skills needed by employers.For more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://uvuafrica.com/capaciti/" href="https://uvuafrica.com/capaciti/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CapaCiTi</a>

Capaciti launches NMB Hub to equip youth with in-demand digital skills.

What difference will a strategic plan make for your business in 2025?“Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare.” – Japanese proverb.It’s been 200+ days without load shedding, and you haven’t started planning for 2025 yet?Yes, there’s buzz around AI and new tech, but success comes from solid strategies and executable plans. These are the backbone of any business.&nbsp;Earlier this year, I wrote about strategic planning for those who hadn’t started. This time, I’m writing early—just like we always do at The Alternative Board (TAB).We start by reviewing the past year: what went well, what didn’t, and what changed. This reflection is key to fresh thinking for the year ahead.&nbsp;There are three types of business starts to a new year:1. The slow, sluggish start, wasting time checking everything.2. The frantic start, like when you’re rushing out of the house and forget things.3. The smooth start, planned ahead, with everything packed and ready.We like the third one.If you haven’t started your 2025 strategy yet, now’s the time! I know ‘silly season’ is approaching, and it gets busy with orders and meetings. But don’t let busyness become an excuse.Making time to plan now will set you up for success. Here are three tips to get started:1. Start with Vision &nbsp;Your vision guides every business decision. Reflect on it and ask:- In which areas have we moved forward?- Where have we fallen back?- Has our thinking around the vision changed?2. Review Your SWOT Analysis &nbsp;Take a high-level look at your business. What’s changed in your internal and external environment? This review brings clarity on what must change and what stays. Consider your role, customers, competition, and operations.3. Focus on Critical Success Factors (CSFs) &nbsp;Identify 3-5 CSFs that are crucial to your success. These could be projects, metrics, or people. Write SMART goals to stay focused and avoid distractions.---Starting now means a smoother 2025. Remember: Vision, Review, and Critical Success Factors.“In real life, strategy is actually very straightforward. You pick a general direction and implement like hell.” – Jack WelchCheers, &nbsp;Coach Colin at <a data-mce-href="https://thealternativeboard.za.com/" href="https://thealternativeboard.za.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">The Alternative Board</a>Coach | Facilitator | Change Agent

Plan Ahead - Stay Ahead: Why waiting to plan for 2025 could cost you.

Debt review is a legal process designed to help over-indebted consumers manage their finances and avoid legal action. If you find yourself struggling to meet monthly debt repayments, debt review can provide a lifeline. However, it’s essential to understand how it works, when to consider it, and what the process involves.You may need debt review if:<ul><li>You’re struggling to meet monthly debt repayments. If you're unable to pay your bills in full and on time every month, it might be a sign that you're over-indebted.</li><li>If creditors are threatening legal action and have started sending final demands or threatening to repossess assets, it's time to act quickly.</li><li>You’re using credit to pay for essentials. When you rely on credit cards or loans just to pay for necessities like groceries, rent, or utilities, it's a sign that your financial situation is unsustainable.</li><li>Your debt exceeds your income. If your total monthly debt repayments are higher than your net income, it's nearly impossible to keep up without assistance.</li></ul> Before jumping into debt review, here are some important considerations:<ol><li>Check if you're eligible. Debt review is intended for consumers who are over-indebted and unable to repay their debts. Your debt counsellor will assess your financial situation and determine if you're a good candidate for the process.</li><li>Understand the long-term commitment. Debt review is a structured, long-term plan that reduces your monthly payments, but you must follow the plan until all your debts are settled or you're declared no longer over-indebted by the High Court.</li><li>While under debt review, you cannot take on any new credit until the process is complete and you’ve received a clearance certificate.</li><li>Ensure your debt counsellor is registered. Only registered debt counsellors can offer legitimate debt review services. Verify that the company you're working with is accredited by the National Credit Regulator (NCR).</li></ol>What does the process look like?&nbsp; In terms of the National Credit Act, The process of debt review is regulated by the National Credit Act (NCA) to ensure consumers are protected. Here's a breakdown of the steps involved:Assessment by a Debt Counsellor: The first step is to approach a registered debt counsellor. They will evaluate your financial situation by comparing your income to your monthly expenses and debt obligations. If the counsellor finds that you're over-indebted, they will recommend debt review. Debt Counsellor Submits an Application (Form 16): You will fill out Form 16, which provides the debt counsellor with authority to act on your behalf. You’ll also provide supporting documents like pay slips, bank statements, and a list of all creditors. Debt Counsellor Notifies Creditors: The counsellor will inform all your creditors and credit bureaus that you have applied for debt review by issuing Form 17.1 and obtaining certificates of balances (COBs). A Form 17.2 will be sent thereafter informing the credit providers that you’re accepted for debt counselling. During this period, creditors are restricted from taking further legal action against you. Debt Repayment Plan: The counsellor will negotiate with your creditors to come up with a reduced monthly repayment plan based on your affordability. This proposal is then submitted to the National Credit Triunal (NCT) or Magistrate’s court for a court order.&nbsp; NCT or Court Order and Payments: Once the order is granted incorporating the repayment plan, it becomes a binding agreement. You will make a single monthly payment to the Payment Distribution Agent (PDA), who will distribute the funds to your creditors.&nbsp; Completion of Debt Review: After all your debts have been repaid, the debt counsellor will issue a clearance certificate, and your credit record will be updated to reflect that you are no longer under debt review. Things to Watch Out For<ol style="list-style-type: lower-alpha;" data-mce-style="list-style-type: lower-alpha;"><li>Beware of hidden fees. Make sure the debt counsellor is transparent about all costs involved, including administration fees, fees charged by the Payment Distribution Agent, reckless lending investigation fees and legal costs for the order.</li><li>Understand the impact on your credit. Debt review will negatively affect your credit profile during the process, but it’s a temporary measure. After receiving your clearance certificate, your credit profile will be restored. Be patient. Debt review can take several years depending on the amount of debts you have and the monthly repayments you are making.</li><li>Make sure you understand if all your proposals have been accepted or not as this affects the interest rates applicable. If a credit provider did not accept a proposal, that means you’ll be paying a reduced fee but at the original (not reduced rate) and the result is that you will take longer to settle or pay that debt in full.</li><li>Debt review can provide much-needed relief if you're drowning in debt, but it requires a long-term commitment. Make sure you fully understand the process and work with a reputable, NCR-registered debt counsellor. If done correctly, debt review can help you avoid the stress of legal action and get back on the path to financial stability.</li></ol>If you're unsure whether debt review is right for you, reach out to an attorney that understands the process or reach out to a debt counsellor to get an expert opinion on your financial situation.Yonela Ndila | Operations Manager and Admitted AttorneyFor more, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://www.caveatlegal.com/" href="https://www.caveatlegal.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Caveat Legal</a>

Understanding Debt Review: When you need it and what to look out for.

This year’s South Africa Auto Week 2024, hosted at the Cape Town International Convention Centre, marks a monumental moment in the country’s automotive industry. Under the centenary banner of NAAMSA | The Automotive Business Council, industry leaders gathered to reflect on the progress made since 1924 while envisioning a future of innovation and sustainability. Among the high-profile attendees was President Cyril Ramaphosa, who lent his presence to this prestigious event, further cementing the importance of the automotive sector to South Africa’s economy.The excitement in the room was palpable, as discussions around alternative NEV powertrains and the benefits of hydrogen technology took center stage. The future of cleaner fuel technologies and innovative energy funding solutions sparked an exchange of bold ideas, all focused on shaping the road ahead for South Africa’s automotive industry.Amidst the thought leadership, a pinnacle moment arrived during the third annual NAAMSA Accelerator Awards. Volkswagen Group Africa (VWGA) emerged as the undeniable star of the day, taking home several top honors. The esteemed awards recognize those in the automotive industry who have gone above and beyond in driving excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth.<figure id="figure-lqwy2p3swqm2iz2b5v"><img id="lqwy2p3swqm2iz2b5v" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30g0XNNthmKGr7znu8oKQsqY77bvt56vI0tvKrWYremcuINV1s13vRPG9QtyKOqZ.png" alt="blank magazine mockup on green marble stone coffee table , shadow overlay" title="blank magazine mockup on green marble stone coffee table , shadow overlay" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="The Volkswagen team celebrating their achievements." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30g0XNNthmKGr7znu8oKQsqY77bvt56vI0tvKrWYremcuINV1s13vRPG9QtyKOqZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">The Volkswagen team celebrating their achievements.</figcaption></figure>Volkswagen’s success was nothing short of remarkable, with the iconic VW Polo sweeping three prestigious awards:<ul><li>Top Locally Manufactured Vehicle of the Year – VW Polo</li><li>Top Exported Vehicle of the Year – VW Polo</li><li>Passenger Car of the Year – Polo Vivo</li></ul>In addition to these wins, Volkswagen received a special certificate honoring the company’s 73-year-long contribution to the development and upliftment of local communities. This recognition not only highlighted Volkswagen’s manufacturing excellence but also underscored its role as a key driver of socio-economic progress in South Africa."We are incredibly proud of our team and the relentless passion that has brought us here," said Martina Biene, from Volkswagen. "These awards belong to every part of our business - from the factory floor to the dealership, and of course, to our loyal customers who continue to believe in us."As Volkswagen celebrates this extraordinary success, the company reaffirms its commitment to pushing the boundaries of excellence. With its eyes set on the future, VWGA remains a leader in innovation, driving South Africa’s automotive industry forward into its next 100 years.For more about VW, visit: <a data-mce-href="https://linkstre.am/volkswagensa?fbclid=IwY2xjawGDJaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHXOqRTYbkkpFmxJQyxEpheM9KiJ0uyragCxrPK-e6fksaFSR66wOrM85DQ_aem_yU3DNsC12GoXxvRXFBfloQ" href="https://linkstre.am/volkswagensa?fbclid=IwY2xjawGDJaRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHXOqRTYbkkpFmxJQyxEpheM9KiJ0uyragCxrPK-e6fksaFSR66wOrM85DQ_aem_yU3DNsC12GoXxvRXFBfloQ" target="_blank" rel="noopener">VWSA</a>

Business News

7 strategies to avoid burnout.

Catalysing youth employment in South Africa: Reflections ...

Capaciti launches NMB Hub to equip youth with in-demand d...

Plan Ahead - Stay Ahead: Why waiting to plan for 2025 cou...

Understanding Debt Review: When you need it and what to l...

Volkswagen shines at NAAMSA Auto Week: A celebration of e...