Burnout is a familiar concept for most Americans. After working long hours on a project or tackling a seemingly endless pile of work on their desks day after day, it’s no wonder many employees simply cannot handle the pressure anymore. In the nonprofit world, however, you may have come to believe that stress and busyness are simply parts of the job.
What are typical characteristics of someone about to experience burnout?
While you do have a cause and people depending on you, this doesn’t mean you’re immune from burnout. If you are unsure if your work-life balance is in need of some serious readjusting, here are a few characteristics that might describe you from Idealist Careers:
- You don’t know how to say “no.”
- You have to do everything at once – and immediately.
- You haven’t invested in your hobbies or hung out with friends … in a while.
- You frequently complain about working too much (but won’t take any days off).
- You don’t take care of yourself because the gym is too expensive and who has time to cook?
- Your weekdays look like this: Work, eat, sleep and repeat.
Does this kind of person sound like you? If so, you may be well on your way to a serious burnout. Unlike much of the rest of working population who can take a few vacation days or rearrange their schedules, the grind never stops in the nonprofit world. Whether you’re busy planning the next fundraiser or reaching out to recent donors, there is always something to keep you moving – and stressed. Despite this chaos, you need to take time to achieve a better work-life balance. Here are a few simple ways to start:
“Make time to have a long lunch or leave a little early every now and then.”
1. Take a half day or leave early
Depending on the giving season, it just might not be possible for you to take a much-needed week or more off to decompress. However, this shouldn’t be an excuse for you to never take some time for yourself. Look at your schedule and find a half or even a few hours where you don’t have anything pressing to do. Maybe you take off the afternoon after a huge deadline has passed or the morning after a presentation, according to The Muse. Whatever the case, make time to have a long lunch or leave a little early every now and then just to de-stress a little bit.
2. Turn off the TV
While it might be easy to crash in front of the television whenever you get home after a long day of work, does this really help you relax? If your daily routine consists of eating, sleeping, working and streaming TV shows, you might want to re-evaluate your schedule. Instead, consider picking up a new hobby, doing something outside of your comfort zone or even participating in low-key activities or classes. This may include picking up a weekly painting class or joining a community sports team. More manageable activities could include challenging yourself to read a book or two a month, or cooking a new meal every week.
3. Make it a group effort
Have you noticed that your entire office seems on the verge of a serious burnout as well? Maybe you should suggest creating an employee-wellness program to your board of directors or other decision makers. This could include group yoga sessions, in-office doctor’s visits or half days once every couple of weeks devoted to staff appreciation.
These few tips are just a start if you are truly looking to regain control of your work and home life. After all, even though you are passionate about what you do, this doesn’t mean you have to forgo spending time with your loved ones or investing in hobbies you enjoy. Start balancing your work-home life starting today!
