Burnout #5

Burnout #5

How about some more ideas to help with burnout?

#8) Take a nap!!

Okay - at age 72 I do take a nap almost every day - and some days I take TWO naps.

And …. True confessions time!!  When I taught I had a mat in my office.  I could close the door and nap away!.

This might not work for all of you - because I am a champion napper!!  My naps are almost always 10 to 15 minutes and I wake up fresh and eager to go!!!

#9) Work-out

Exercise definitely helps to fight stress and burnout.  Take a jog at lunch!! I used to take a walk at lunch - get some fresh air and refresh my mind.  

#10) Mindfulness

The article says: “Personally, I find the best way to avoid burnout is to have an ongoing focus on mindfulness rather than only when on breaks and vacations. Find ways to detach during the week in a way that works for you. Yoga and exercise work for some, while meditation works for others. Be mindful of those moments. Try to take consistent mini-breaks throughout the week to detach and re-center.”

#11) Find a hobby

I can immerse myself in activities - and lose track of time - and thus also lose track of the problems and stresses of the world.  Lately, I’ve been crochet (not very well - MM) and that can take my mind off other things. Or when I play bridge - my mind is not on life - but the game.

#12) Build a great team

If you are getting burned out, it might be that you are doing all the work.  Build a team. If you are teaching, spend some time with your colleagues and learn to rely on others.  I rarely used my department secretaries when I taught - and I should have turned things over to them (like duplicating tests).

And Finally 

#13) Meditate daily

The author of the article writes:

“Even if it's just for 10 minutes, spending the time (especially in the early afternoon) to just breathe has been extraordinarily powerful for me. It keeps me fresh and sharp, and taking self-care seriously sets a great example for the rest of the team.”

I get up about 5:30 or 6:00.  In that quiet morning time, I do my daily Bible reading and praying.  I do a couple of daily games to jump-start my brain. I reflect on the day ahead and what needs to be done.  I can prioritize things when I’m well-rested and ready to go!!

The bottom line is (at least for me) - take care of yourself.  The things I do (and forgot to do a month ago) help keep me focused and wipe out the stress and burned out feelings.  

And, finally “This too shall pass”.  In 100 years, will anyone know that you did or did not accomplish something on November 12, 2019?

Hugs!!!

Karen