Wi2026: When Burnout Isn't What You Expect: Managing Stress, Wellbeing, and Sustainability

Throughout the week, you find yourself moving between perfectionism, irritability, emotional numbness, or disengagement in your store. You're not exhausted, so what's got you feeling so off? Even when you're not feeling the stereotypical signs, burnout can undermine your passion, productivity, and wellbeing — all without raising any immediate alarm bells. In this session, we'll explore the unique pressures indie bookstores face, like juggling multiple roles, dealing with emotional labor, and navigating the financial uncertainties of retail. You'll learn to recognize these hidden symptoms of burnout in yourself and your team and gain practical strategies to address them. Topics will include creating sustainable workflows, setting healthy boundaries, fostering open communication, and building a supportive work culture that values mental health.   Recorded February 26, 2026 at Winter Institute 2026 in Pittsburgh, PA. Additional bookstore education resources can be found at www.bookweb.org.   Theme song by Constant Companion