How do you balance advocacy and a job?
For those who have to juggle work and advocacy, how do you manage your time to be productive at both without burning all your energy?
it’s all about boundaries. I’ve learned to not check my socials or respond to messages related to my advocacy cause while I’m at work. Splitting my attention between the two meant I was doing neither well. I also have to think about family time after work. This means I may not be as active as other advocates who do not work full-time, and I had to accept that. Work pays the bills and provides insurance for me, so it will always take priority over advocacy. I try to focus on a few “big events” with my main charity each year and create time in my schedule for new opportunities that arise (which sometimes means planning time off work). 
. balance is so important. It's so hard to do when we feel the cause is worthwhile, but for the sake of our sanity, it is important to establish those boundaries. - Warmly. Donna (Team Member)
When I worked in a government job, I had to be careful when I did visits on the hill. I had to make it clear that I was just EDUCATING, not lobbying. I would tell my reps about problems managing asthma and allergies, and include facts from CDC.
When I was done, another person in our group could talk about legislation and "do the ask".Andrea M. Jensen, CHES(R), AEC, that seems like a sensible division, and I imagine eliminates any conflicts of interest. Thank you for sharing. - Warmly, Donna (Team Member)
Depending on how much energy I would need to expend, I typically plan out my awareness and advocacy initiatives at least 6-12 months ahead of time. I’ve found this helps me pace out my advocacy work so I don’t over extend myself or burn out. I also choose “advocacy themes” each year as well, which helps me maintain focus, and not get pulled in different directions.
Carefully with intention. I am in the midst of making this work. I have a few key rules for myself to share. It has to speak to my heart and not take more than two hours of my time. My biggest challenge is letting go of some important heartfelt passions so I can w-e-r-k it all out!
