Years ago, when I first burned out, I realized I had to totally change my life.
I first burned out in 2012. And nobody was talking about burnout. In fact, in the nonprofit industry, we are praised at how much we work and how much we network. I remember being nominated for the Athena Award for my work with Severson Sisters and thinking…how weird that the award is named after the goddess of warfare. Crafts too, which was totally cool. But her image was all about war. And that is what it felt like for years – in the trenches with battle armor on.
How do you come out of burnout though if nobody at work is prioritizing your mental health, physical health or wellbeing?
It’s honestly up to you. You have to make you a priority before anyone else can.
Self-care is a daily choice.
Something I focus on in my burnout-recovery keynotes and seminars is non-negotiables and how to create some boundaries around them.
So let’s do that together!
Go get your journal.
And on a clean piece of paper write down THREE activities that could lead to more balance in your life!
Examples: Walking, a good phone call with a friend at night, meditation.
Cool. Cool. Same.
Now, write down as many new ways your new non-negotiable list can become a priority in life.
Example: I can step outside to get fresh air twice a day during my breaks to get some extra steps in. I can take three minutes and practice the 5-4-3-2-1 meditation when I’m about to have a meltdown mid-day. I can call a loved one before or after work every day.
Finally, write down as many people in your life you can share this new non-negotiable list with.
And then share it!
And put it up on your fridge to remind yourself that you have to have make changes in your life to have a change within your life.
xx
C
