Brooke Dukes, author of “Burn On, Not Out: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Success,” hopes to help women discover their passions and joys. 

Inspired by her own experiences in corporate America, she knows that women can seem to have it all but are struggling with feelings of inadequacy and unfulfillment. Brooke and her family moved to Texas in 2020 and have loved the community they have found. Texas Lifestyle Magazine recently talked with Brooke about her passion for women in the corporate world and advice for women struggling with burn out. 

What has inspired you to help female business owners, and in what ways do you lead them down a healthier path?

I was inspired to help female business owners because I wanted them to create careers and lives that feel good on the inside, not just look good on the outside. I aim to help them discover what truly lights them up and then burn as brightly as possible — not just for themselves but as a beacon for others. 

I climbed the corporate ladder, fully believing I could have it all. However, after years of climbing, the sacrifices began to take their toll on me and my family, leading me to the brink of burnout and the deepest depression of my life. I’ve learned and now teach that you can have it all without sacrificing your values. There’s a way to keep your passion and purpose alight without burning out. This life might seem like a dream, but it’s attainable and closer than you think. I guide women to embrace their power and shine by creating the life they are meant to live through business consulting, one-on-one coaching, and online programs.

Who has inspired you to become who you are today?

The people who inspired me to become who I am today are the recovering overachievers who, like me, previously defined themselves primarily by their success, achievements and accomplishments. I’ve met hundreds of women who, from the outside, seemed to have it all. These women share my story of feeling perfect on the outside while inside, they felt unfulfilled, scared, confused, and even angry. They did everything “right” but couldn’t understand why they were so miserable. These are the women with dreams in their hearts whose passion has dwindled to mere embers. We need more women leaders who empower, support and lift each other up.

In your book “Burn On, Not Out: Finding Fulfillment Beyond Success” you describe how you climbed the corporate ladder and seemingly had it all. Why do you think women struggle even when they seem to have it all together?

I believe they face societal expectations to excel in their careers while also being perfect caregivers and homemakers. They manage significant emotional pressures, caring for the emotional needs of families and workplaces, which can be draining. Even successful women can suffer from imposter syndrome, feeling like frauds despite their achievements. Traditional gender roles, work-life balance challenges, mental health stigma, and a lack of genuine support networks can further complicate their lives.

What would your advice be to your younger self and young women starting in their careers?

My advice to my younger self and to young women starting their careers would be to carve your own path and follow your true passions. Don’t chase someone else’s dream or succumb to societal pressures about what success should look like. Discover what genuinely excites and motivates you, and pursue that wholeheartedly. You can have a successful career and a fulfilling life at the same time, but you need to define what that means for you. Don’t conform to others’ expectations or traditional norms that don’t resonate with you. Step out of your comfort zone, face your fears, and empower yourself to create the life you’ve dreamed of. Be patient and kind to yourself, as success and fulfillment are ongoing journeys that evolve with you. Build a support network of mentors and peers who understand and encourage your growth. Being true to yourself is the key to long-lasting success and happiness.

As a transplant to Texas, what do you love most about the Lone Star State?

What I love most about Texas is undoubtedly the people. My family has truly found our home here, embraced by an incredibly supportive and loving community that helped us settle in seamlessly. We arrived just five days before the pandemic shut everything down — a timing that could have made our transition exceptionally difficult. However, we couldn’t have asked for a better place to face such challenging times. The vibrant culture, rich in music, food and traditions, is welcoming and exhilarating. 

The entrepreneurial spirit here is particularly vibrant. After leaving a company I had been with for 16 years, I ventured out on my own, and Austin, in particular, embraced my vision. The city has not only supported but propelled me forward, allowing me to thrive in ways I hadn’t imagined. The sense of community extends beyond personal interactions, with a collective commitment to support local businesses and initiatives. The music scene, a cornerstone of Texan culture, provides an eclectic mix that reflects the diversity of its people. Texas offers not just a place to live but a community and an environment that fosters personal and professional growth, making everyone feel as if they’ve always belonged. For this, I am immensely grateful.

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Cover Photo courtesy Brooke Dukes

Natalie French is an intern with Texas Lifestyle Magazine and a journalism major at Baylor University. In her free time, she loves to hang out with her friends and family, read new books and try new food.