Why High Achievers Burn Out: The Four Types of Hidden Resistance

Unveiling the Hidden Barriers to High Achievement

Dr. Jane Elliot's insights reveal how SpinCyclers, OverDeliverers, Upper Limiters, and White Knucklers each face unique resistance patterns that contribute to burnout and hinder long-term success.

Jane Elliot, PhD is an academic and coach who has a profound understanding of the psychology behind self-sabotage, particularly in highly intelligent and high-achieving individuals. We recently sat down to discuss her insights and the framework she created to identify and address the different types of avoidance that hold them back. I found myself nodding in agreement, recognizing myself and others in the different avoidance styles she described. In this post, I share the four types and some personal insights and reflections on each one. 

Understanding the Four Types of Resistance

SpinCyclers

SpinCyclers are individuals who continuously jump from one project to another or even change careers frequently. Rather than seeing a project through to completion, they’re always seeking new challenges, often as a way to avoid facing the reality of losing interest in their current endeavors. This tendency to jump around can prevent them from achieving long-term success and fulfillment and causes them to lose trust in their ability to see things through. 

Personal Reflection: I definitely relate to the "shiny object syndrome" that characterizes SpinCyclers. It's easy to get excited about new projects and ideas but much more challenging to stay focused and consistent over time. Listening to Jane discuss this made me rethink how I approach my current projects and the importance of creating the conditions that nurture sustainability and consistency. 

OverDeliverers

OverDeliverers are individuals who tend to do too much, often going well above and beyond what is necessary and even superior. This excessive effort is generally a way to avoid experiencing white space, fearing that stepping back will be seen as laziness or lack of dedication. The constant need to overperform often leads to burnout and a declining quality of life.

Personal Reflection:  Whether in my former careers or since becoming self-employed, I’ve often found myself in the over-delivering category. The societal pressure to constantly prove oneself leads to toxic productivity. Jane Elliot’s discussion on this topic was a powerful reminder of the importance of setting boundaries and recognizing that rest is essential for both sustainable success and well-being.

Upper Limiters

Upper Limiters avoid feeling fully in charge by putting someone else in control and seeking external validation. They often struggle with feeling worthy of success and may sabotage their achievements by deferring decisions and responsibilities to others. This can result in a dependency on external factors rather than an internal sense of agency.

Personal Reflection: Entrusting others with significant decisions can be a double-edged sword. While delegation is important, relying too heavily on others can undermine one's confidence. I don’t struggle with this particular style of avoidance and often avoid seeking input from others, which is limiting in its own way.  For those that do, the goal is to strike a better balance between seeking guidance and asserting one’s own autonomy in decision-making.

White Knucklers

White Knucklers are so determined to meet deadlines and complete tasks that they do so under continuous pressure and excessive stress. They achieve through sheer willpower, often at the expense of their well-being. This relentless drive can create a cycle of constant stress and physical and emotional exhaustion.

Personal Reflection: The description of White Knucklers hit home for me. Pushing through deadlines under immense pressure often feels like the only way to achieve success. It was once a source of pride, but I’ve come to recognize the need to ease the pressure valve and prioritize self-care. 

Perfectionism: A Symptom, Not a Standalone Style

In our conversation, Jane emphasized that perfectionism should not be viewed as a standalone avoidance style but rather as a symptom of deeper issues. This perspective shifts the focus from labeling oneself as a perfectionist to exploring the underlying causes of perfectionistic tendencies.

Personal Reflection: Viewing perfectionism as a symptom rather than an identity was a revelation. It encouraged me to dig deeper and understand the root of my perfectionist tendencies, opening up new possibilities for additional growth.

The Burden of Being Gifted

Another profound topic discussed was the identity component of being gifted. Jane eloquently explained how being identified as gifted can often be more of a burden than a gift. The high expectations and pressure to constantly live up to others' standards can lead to emotional struggles and profound feelings of isolation and alienation.

Personal Reflection: This topic struck a chord with me, as I've often felt the weight of high expectations - my own, and others. It reinforced the importance of self-compassion and understanding that my worth is not solely tied to my intelligence or achievements.

Embracing Humility and Service

Jane and I also touched on the value of humility and gratitude for one's abilities. Using one’s gifts in the service of others and recognizing everyone's unique contributions can foster a sense of purpose and emotional security.

Personal Reflection: This discussion was both humbling and inspiring. It reminded me to stay grounded and recognize that my skills and talents are not just for personal gain but for contributing to the larger good.

Conclusion

Jane Elliot’s insights into the different types of resistance, the challenges of being gifted, and the significance of humility and service have left a lasting impact on me. It’s a reminder that success is as much about the journey of self-discovery and growth as it is about achieving external milestones. Acknowledging these resistances allows us to break free from self-imposed obstacles and create a path toward true fulfillment and success. 

Feel free to DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram @coachdiannwingert or send me an email at diann@diannwingertcoaching.com. I'd love to hear your thoughts! If you'd like to hear my conversation with Jane on The Driven Woman Entrepreneur Podcast, you can do that here.