Patient Leader Certification: Balance and Burnout
What's one strategy for managing balance and burnout that you can use right away? Why did you choose it?
In order to avoid burnout, I listen to my body as much as possible. I try to get out in nature and take a walk every single day, unless the weather is absolutely unacceptable. Being outside in the fresh air helps my mind and body reset. I especially like it if I can be surrounded by nature. I don't watch intense shows very often, as they just get me too keyed up. And I also make time to unplug and step away from all media (even my beloved NPR) each and every day. My brain needs quiet time!
A strategy I use to prevent burnout is to actually rest. No forcing of myself to create content or engage, no extra meetings or phone calls. If I spend a full day in the community talking to people, the next day I have already scheduled it as a relax and refresh day. It helps me to stay centered and grounded. When dealing with others in the chronic disease community, it can come with a lot of heavy, relatable conversations and I have to take those moments afterwards.
A strategy I use is to pretend I'm five and set myself a bedtime. This gives me permission to wind down from too much activity and stress and get the rest I need.
A strategy that I use to manage burnout is I take a break In posting medical related content and switch to light hearted and comedy content. I will post content that makes light of the situation so that the feed wont feel as heavy. I stick to this plan because chronic illnesses is often shared in a serious light but sometimes we need laughter to balance us out!
