In every church staff, there often lurks an unsung hero - a dependable, competent individual who comes to the rescue when problems arise. They are the "Fixer," the solution finder whom everyone turns to; but seldom does anyone ask, "how are you coping?" Today on the Healthy Church Staff Podcast, we will discuss the emotional toll being a fixer takes and how to address potential burnout.
Initially, being the fixer can feel like a compliment. People trust and depend on these competent, cool-headed individuals. However, over time, helping turns into an unstated part of their job description.
While dealing with staff drama isn't typically part of their role, they naturally become the emotional "catch-all" for it. They listen to the venting, advise the unsure, and soothe the aggrieved. But in doing so, they sometimes have to set aside their own needs, resulting in them becoming the church staff's "emotional sponge" - absorbing all the team's dysfunction and complaints.
Aggravatingly, though known for their composure, fixers often find themselves penalized for being assertive, setting personal boundaries, and promoting workplace ethics. The emotional labor is unseen and infrequently discussed in churches, leading the fixers to deny their exhaustion and continue in their current unsustainable pace until they eventually burn out.
A fair place to start is acknowledging that the fixer is not responsible for carrying everyone else's emotional baggage and anticipating their needs. There is significant value in setting healthy boundaries, prioritizing personal health, and learning to say "no" without guilt. A healthy church staff team recognizes the high-empathy, high output leaders and shares the load.
If you are a leader, respect the contribution of your fixers, understand the risks they face, and start promoting emotional health across your team. Advocate for shared responsibilities, reward proactivity, and back boundaries with action. Do not let the silent sacrifice of your fixers end up with overwork, burnout, or eventual resentment. Encourage rest, realistic expectations, and empathic conversations.
Every "fixer" needs to know that it's okay to feel overwhelmed, okay to need a break—because they are human too.
Interested in supporting your fixer or wondering if this describes you? Join our discussion and learn how you and your church staff can avoid burnout and emotional exhaustion on today's Healthy Church Staff Podcast episode.. It's time to ensure everyone in your team is not just valued but also well cared for in your church.