2025 Paywise WAPPA Conference Keynote Speaker, Dr. Marny Lishman
-written by Samantha Higgins
It’s Lonely at the Top – Who is Looking After You?
At a recent conference, Dr. Marny Lishman gave us all a gentle (and slightly cheeky) nudge to stop glorifying burnout and start taking charge of our energy. Her session, Re-energise: Mastering Energy Movement for Peak Performance, unpacked why so many of us feel like collapsing face-first into the nearest beanbag — and what we can actually do about it.
Laying Flatism – A Global Rebellion
Heard of “laying flatism”? It’s not the latest yoga pose — it’s a worldwide pushback against the unrealistic demands of hustle culture. People are tired of being “always on” and are choosing to resist the glorification of busy. If you’ve ever felt like cancelling everything in your calendar just to lie flat on the couch (remote in hand, snacks within reach), you’re not alone. Dr. Lishman warned this movement reflects a bigger problem: the global epidemic of exhaustion.
Stress: The Double-Edged Sword
Contrary to what we sometimes believe, stress isn’t always bad. At the right level, it motivates us, fuels performance, and even sharpens our focus. But too little stress, and we’re bored. Too much stress, and we’re overwhelmed, inefficient, and ready to cry over the printer jamming… again. Finding that “sweet spot” on the stress bell curve is key — though easier said than done when life feels like a three-ring circus.
The Warning Lights of Energy Depletion
Dr. Lishman encouraged us to tune in to the signs of energy depletion — they’re like the dashboard lights in your car. Ignore them, and you’ll be broken down on the side of the road.
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Physical: fatigue that no amount of caffeine fixes, constant aches, immunity on strike.
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Emotional: feeling anxious, disconnected, or suddenly allergic to people.
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Mental: distracted, unable to focus, procrastinating, or stuck in “decision fatigue” (like staring at a fridge full of food but ordering takeaway anyway).
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Spiritual: not feeling like yourself, losing sight of your values, or simply losing hope.
Sound familiar? That’s your system yelling for a reset.
From Burnout to Brilliant: Practical Fixes
The good news? Recovery doesn’t mean moving to a monastery or adopting an all-kale diet. Dr. Lishman reminded us that small, intentional rituals make the difference:
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Physical: get moving, prioritise real rest, eat food that fuels, not just what’s closest to the staffroom table.
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Spiritual: carve out “just because” time — read, create, laugh, or wander aimlessly. Play isn’t just for kids.
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Mental & Emotional: give yourself permission to switch off, take breaks away from your desk, and yes, actually say “no” sometimes. (It’s a complete sentence, and very freeing!)
Leading by Example
One of the most powerful moments was when participants shared their own commitments: drinking more water, leaving desks at lunch, visiting classrooms for connection rather than admin, and — perhaps the bravest of all — saying “no” more often. Imagine the ripple effect if leaders modelled this kind of wellbeing.
Final Reflection
Dr. Lishman’s books Burnout to Brilliant and Crisis to Contentment go deeper into these ideas, but her key message was simple: protecting your wellbeing is not indulgence, it’s insurance. You can’t lead effectively (or even survive staff meetings) if your tank is empty.
So here’s the challenge: what’s one small ritual you’ll commit to this week? Whether it’s eating lunch away from your desk, turning off email after hours, or finally dusting off those running shoes (for running or just to look sporty — your choice), remember: thriving isn’t about doing more. It’s about protecting your energy so you can do what matters most.
After all, as Dr. Lishman reminded us: “It’s lonely at the top — but it doesn’t have to be exhausting.”