Burnout Prevention
September 5, 2023
Summer Health Tip #4: "Did you take a vacation this summer? I hope that the answer is yes! Over and over research has shown that there are significant benefits when you take an extended break from your work routine."
By Cindy Williams, Rn
Coordinator, Health Ministries
Did you take a vacation this summer? Even a mini get-away or stay-cation? I hope that the answer is yes! Over and over research has shown that there are significant benefits when you take an extended break from your work routine. Vacations result in improved productivity, lower stress, better mental health, and greater creativity.
The pandemic and economic pressures have pushed many of us to make vacation plans that are different than they likely were in the past. That doesn’t mean that they can’t be fun and provide us with great benefits. Here are some tips to make the most of that time away.
- Plan something that truly refreshes you and your family. What recharges you? What is your idea of fun and recreation? Is it exploring, learning a new skill, engaging in a sport, or trying new food? Do you need good sleep, warmer & sunnier days, or new acquaintances?
- Set realistic expectations for your vacation. It isn’t likely to cure burnout or cure everything that needs fixing.
- Spend time in nature. Studies show that spending time outdoors has physical and mental benefits. It doesn’t matter whether you are simply taking a walk in your neighborhood, having a picnic, or at the ocean.
- Create memories. What you do isn’t as important as the people you do it with. Record some of those memories on video or with still pictures. Technology has made saving memories easy.
- Cut the cord. Limit the time that you are available at your office. It’s best if you are completely away. If that isn’t possible, limit work to specific times of day so both your office and your family know how to plan.
- Come back from vacation a day early. This may seem like you are cutting your vacation short but it’s likely that you will feel more relaxed when you return to work if you do this. Give yourself at least enough time to unpack, clean up your home, and get a good night’s rest before you return to work.
References:
News
Maranatha Volunteers Chose Service at UCA this Summer
This year, Upper Columbia Conference launched a new approach for camp meeting.
David Jamieson shares his experience at GC Session and initiatives for UCC moving forward.
SonBridge Center for Better Living held an open house in July commemorating 20 years of bringing help and hope to the Walla Walla Valley.
What began as a small community initiative soon grew into one of the largest projects the team had ever undertaken.
School buses, vans, trucks, and other Upper Columbia Conference vehicles received a safety inspection in June.
Highlights from the highest governing body of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
Köhler previously was serving as the secretary of the General Conference.
The SonBridge Dental Clinic in College Place, Washington gave 157 people with unaddressed dental issues relief at a free community dental fair in May.
The General Conference Session will be held July 3-12 in St. Louis, Missouri. The theme for the session is "Jesus is Coming, I Will Go!"
