Rachael O’Meara is an executive coach, transformational speaker, and the author of Pause, a book born from her own experience of burning out while working at Google. Her journey from overwhelm to self-discovery inspired her to dedicate her life to helping high-achieving professionals—especially women—navigate burnout, build emotional intelligence, and step into leadership with authenticity. At Humans of Fuzia, we are proud to share her story with our 5M+ community of women and allies, reminding us that true growth begins when we give ourselves permission to pause.
Q: Can you share the turning point that led you to dedicate your work to helping others avoid burnout?
Rachael: About 12 years ago, I experienced burnout while working at Google. I took a three-month leave and came back in a different role, but the experience transformed me. I realized I had learned so much that others needed to hear, which led me to write Pause. Since then, my mission has been to help others—especially high-achievers—avoid the mistakes I made and create fulfilling careers without burning out.
Q: What keeps you motivated in this work every day?
Rachael: I’ve seen firsthand how developing emotional intelligence changes lives. These are skills anyone can learn, but we’re not taught them in school. Something as simple as naming your feelings can transform how you show up in life and leadership. My drive comes from wanting people to have access to these tools so they can thrive.
Q: How do you see emotional intelligence shaping leadership and transformation?
Rachael: Emotional intelligence is the foundation for sustainable change. We often try to “think” our way into transformation, but without addressing our emotions, the changes don’t last. Our emotional brain works 400 times faster than logic, so unless we become more aware and shift what’s underneath, we’ll revert to old habits. Emotional intelligence is critical for authentic leadership and long-term growth.
Q: What has been the hardest inner work you’ve had to do as a leader?
Rachael: The hardest part was confronting my own “false self”—the persona I showed the world. I avoided conflict, denied my emotions, and projected an image of having it all together, when in reality, I didn’t. Breaking through that false self was painful but necessary. It allowed me to lead authentically, connect with others more deeply, and grow into who I truly am.
Q: In your coaching practice, what patterns do you notice among women nearing burnout?
Rachael: A major pattern is self-doubt and loss of confidence. Many women question everything they do, just as I did at Google. They often lack a clear vision for themselves and are simply surviving day-to-day. I help them uncover those unconscious blocks, build boundaries, and create new habits so they can step into their full potential.
Q: What’s one bold belief you hold about the future of women in leadership?
Rachael: I believe women must prioritize themselves first. Too often, we put everyone else’s needs ahead of our own. I call this the “pause paradox”—we think we can’t pause, but in reality, pausing is what allows us to thrive. It doesn’t have to mean a vacation; it means being intentional about how you use your energy. In today’s world, pausing is not optional—it’s essential for sustainable leadership.
Q: If you could leave our global audience with one “pause-worthy” reflection, what would it be?
Rachael: I’d ask: How are you managing your energy? Rate yourself from 1–10 across your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual energy. Are you aligned with the life you want? That question can open the door to real transformation.
“Pause isn’t about slowing down—it’s about making intentional choices that allow you to thrive.” – Rachael O’Meara
Connect with Rachael O’Meara
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