Why It’s So Hard for Leaders to Say “I Need Care”

Why is it so hard for leaders to admit they need care?

In this bonus episode of Behind the Seal, Mindy Caliguire returns to explore the internal resistance so many leaders face when it comes to their own health. Joined by ECFA President Michael Martin, this conversation moves beyond theory and into the real-life tension leaders experience every day.

From the hidden cost of constant output to the surprising discomfort of rest, Mindy and Michael unpack why leaders often avoid what they need most, and what happens when they finally choose to face it.

You’ll also hear:

• Why self-awareness is the first and hardest step
• What leaders discover when they stop “powering through”
• The unexpected reality of sabbatical (it’s not always what you think)
• Why it’s never too late for God to meet you — even in burnout

If you’ve ever felt stretched, exhausted, or unsure how to slow down, this conversation will meet you right where you are.

About Mindy Caliguire:

Mindy Caliguire is the founder of Soul Care, a ministry dedicated to helping leaders cultivate a healthy soul. With decades of experience in spiritual formation and leadership development, Mindy has guided countless leaders through seasons of burnout, renewal, and long-term sustainability.

Her work equips individuals and organizations to integrate rhythms of rest, reflection, and relational support into everyday leadership so they can flourish for the long haul.

Key Takeaways:

• Leaders often struggle to admit they need care, even when the signs are clear.
• Self-awareness is the starting point. You can’t address what you won’t acknowledge.
• Leaders have countless ways to avoid their struggles. Busyness often masks deeper needs.
• “Powering through” comes at a cost. Eventually, the system runs dry.
• Sabbatical isn’t about breakthroughs — it’s about rest and letting the ground lie fallow.
• The most meaningful transformation often happens in ordinary moments with God.
• Leader care fuels mission effectiveness. It’s not separate from impact, it sustains it.
• It’s never too late to begin. Even crisis moments can become turning points.

Additional Resources:

• ECFA Leader Care Resources
• Soul Care by Mindy Caliguire
• Spiritual direction & coaching resources

Call to Action:

If this episode resonated with you, take a next step:

• Share this with a leader who might be quietly struggling
• Subscribe for more conversations on healthy leadership
• Reflect honestly: Where am I avoiding the care I need?