39yo's Mission: Work Less
Jo Hooper, who suffered two work-related breakdowns before 31, now advocates for a change in work culture to prevent burnout, a condition that led to 22 million lost working days in Britain in 2024-25
Jo Hooper, a 39-year-old former communications professional, is on a mission to convince people to work less after experiencing two work-related breakdowns before the age of 31 due to burnout. Burnout, recognized by the World Health Organization as a state of physical and emotional exhaustion, forced Hooper to re-evaluate her priorities.
Hooper spent her 20s chasing career success, quickly rising through the ranks with promotions and pay rises. She landed her dream role at 30, but struggled with burnout and had to take time off work. Despite her initial thoughts that a job change would solve the problem, Hooper realized that her behavior and the expectations placed upon her were the root causes of her burnout.
The statistics on burnout are alarming. In Britain, 22 million working days were lost due to work-related stress in 2024-25. Furthermore, two in five young workers aged 18 to 24 took time off due to poor mental health caused by stress in 2025, according to Mental Health UK. Dr. Jill Williams, a psychologist and business coach, notes that perfectionists or those who go the extra mile are more likely to experience burnout.
Hooper is not alone in her experience. Olympic athlete Laviai Nielsen and Green Party MP Carla Denyer have also spoken out about experiencing burnout. Their stories highlight the need for a change in work culture to prevent others from suffering similar breakdowns.
## Why it matters The consequences of burnout are far-reaching, affecting not only individuals but also the economy. With millions of working days lost due to work-related stress, it is essential to address the root causes of burnout and promote a healthier work-life balance. Hooper's mission to convince people to work less is a step towards creating a more sustainable and supportive work environment.
As Hooper reflects on her experience, she hopes to raise awareness about the dangers of burnout and encourage others to prioritize their well-being. By sharing her story, Hooper aims to inspire a change in work culture that values employee mental health and promotes a better work-life balance.
