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Other ideas to avoid burnout include the following:
Work with Purpose.
Find a way to give your job another purpose beyond
the money. Not everybody can work for a non-profit organization that
directly provides charity. However, if you work in the medical profession,
you could suggest a day where you provide services to the
disadvantaged for little or no money. If you work in the food industry, you
could find ways to donate food that would otherwise be discarded. You
can find a higher purpose in any job, and this can help you avoid
burnout!
Lend a helping hand.
Similar to finding purpose at work, helping others,
either on or off the job, helps keep burn out at bay. “Paying it forward” is
a concept that encourages people to do a small act of kindness as a
sign
of appreciation for a kindness once done for them. It brings true joy
– and joyful activity is not conducive to burnout.
Take Charge.
Burn out is often the result of not feeling challenged or in
control of your destiny at work. You can overcome burnout by finding
ways to create more autonomy in your role. Ask your boss for “stretch
activities,” which are activities just currently beyond your current scope of
responsibility.
Get creative.
Burnout interferes with your ability to perform well and
reduces your ability to think creatively. Find other ways to express your
creativity, even if this creativity is outside of work. It will still help stave off
the effect of burnout.
Get enough exercise.
We have already discussed the benefits of regular
exercise. In addition to relieving stress, exercise can ward off signs of
burnout by keeping you physically and mentally fit. Regular exercise also
helps you sleep better, which is important for physical and mental health.
Manage Stress.
Stress exacerbates the intensity and frequency of burnout.
Therefore, it is important to manage stress effectively. There are
several
strategies that we have already discussed to manage stress.
Some other
ideas include engaging in activities with others, writing down
your
feelings, exercising, and practicing positive self-talk.
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Section 18 – Planning For Your Future