Introduction:
Generosity is a beautiful trait. It opens doors, creates connections, and fosters abundance.
But what happens when it crosses the line? True generosity goes beyond just giving—it
transforms our brain and experience of life. Yet, there’s a dangerous side to over-giving,
especially for high achievers at risk of burnout.

The Science of Giving:
Generosity isn’t just about material wealth. When we give, our brains release dopamine and
serotonin, the same chemicals associated with happiness. It’s not just about the
receiver—the giver experiences profound changes, too. Yet, when you give too much of
yourself, your brain can become overstressed, blurring the boundary between generosity
and depletion.

When Generosity Becomes an Ingredient for Burnout:
For those who constantly pour their energy into others—whether through time, emotional
support, or work—it’s easy to ignore the signs of burnout. Over-generosity, especially
without boundaries, can leave you drained, resentful, and emotionally depleted. I’ve seen
this in many clients I coach—those who equate self-worth with how much they give often hit
a breaking point. Generosity without limits is not sustainable.
The Reciprocal Power of Generosity:
Generosity fosters abundance and meaning. However, if you’re always putting others first,
you risk neglecting your own needs. This leads to feeling stretched thin and eventually
burned out. The key is balance: knowing when to give and when to prioritize yourself.

Danger of Over-Giving in Leadership and High Performance:
Executives and high performers often feel the pressure to give endlessly—whether to
employees, stakeholders, or family members. But this constant outward focus is one of the
biggest factors leading to burnout. If you find yourself in this cycle, as many of my coaching
clients do, it’s essential to reassess where your energy is going.

Conclusion: The Balance of Generosity
Generosity, when practiced in balance, is powerful. It rewires the brain, shifts your
perspective to abundance, and creates stronger connections. But over-generosity is an
often-overlooked ingredient of burnout. If you’re feeling the weight of always giving, it might
be time to step back and assess whether your generosity is costing you your well-being.
If this resonates with you, I’ve helped many professionals find that balance—and I’d love to
help you, too.