Today’s Morning Buzz is by Danielle Rogers, Community Marketing Manager for the City of Newton, Iowa. Connect with Danielle on LinkedIn.
What I’m reading: Happy Singlehood: The Rising Acceptance and Celebration of Solo Living by Elyakim Kislev
What I’m watching: Disappeared on Max and Chrissy & Dave Dine Out on Hulu
What I’m listening to: The you’re a single mom in the 90s cleaning her house playlist on Spotify
Let’s talk honestly about something we’ve all experienced: burnout. It’s that feeling of being mentally exhausted. And in our line of work – it happens more than I think we want to admit, especially in communities where things can get intense. I know it’s easier said than done to take care of yourself. I’m struggling daily, but I know every time I am reminded by my support system or therapist of some practical tips and tricks, I seem to do better. So I’m hoping today’s Morning Buzz will help others who may be overwhelmed, stressed or at their wits’ end, and encourage everyone to take care of themselves.
Acknowledge and Accept: It’s not just about admitting when you’re overwhelmed; it’s also about recognizing that it’s okay to feel this way. In a world where opinions fly left and right, it’s easy to feel like you’re being pulled in every direction. So take a moment to validate your feelings and understand that it’s a natural response to the chaos around us. Practice self-compassion by treating yourself with the kindness and understanding you would offer a resident in a similar situation. Allow yourself to feel what you’re feeling without judgment or guilt.
Set Boundaries: You know the saying, “You must put your oxygen mask on first”? Well, it’s true. Setting boundaries is like putting up a fence around your well-being (mental and emotional). Think of it as creating a buffer zone around yourself to prevent burnout. Whether it’s turning off your phone notifications during family time or declining an extra committee meeting, allow yourself to take a break. Communicate your boundaries clearly and assertively.
Cultivate Joyful Moments: Life is too short to be all work and no play. Make time for the things that make you happy, whether baking cookies, binge-watching your favorite show, or having a dance party in your living room. Those little moments of joy can make a big difference. Delve deeper into joy by exploring what truly brings you happiness and fulfillment. It’s about indulging in fleeting pleasures and nurturing activities that align with your values and passions.
Foster Connection and Support: You’re not alone in this. Contact your #LocalGov friends or anyone you trust and let them know what you’re going through. Building a support network isn’t just about having someone to vent to; it’s about cultivating meaningful connections that provide genuine understanding and empathy. Engage in reciprocal relationships where you also offer support to others, creating a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
Practice Mindfulness and Self-Reflection: Taking a few minutes each day to relax and be present can work wonders for your mental health. Whether you meditate, walk, or zone out, give yourself the gift of some me-time. Dive deeper into mindfulness by exploring techniques and practices that resonate with you.
Burnout can be tough, especially in today’s polarized communities, but with a little self-care, you can overcome it. Remember to be kind to yourself, set those boundaries, and don’t forget to enjoy the little things in life. You’ve got this.