Productivity & Burnout
by Ashley Graham-Wilcox
The irony of church work is that those festive times of year — where others are enjoying extended breaks, time with family, or time to prepare and reflect on the holidays — are often our busiest. Our worship service schedule multiplies, our attendance expands, our outreach ministries see an influx of both donation and need, and we can just hope the copy machine can keep up. Add to that the challenge of creating a meaningful, balanced, low-stress holiday in your personal life (don’t forget the holiday baking, your kid’s outfit for the school concert, and to get the right stamps for your Christmas cards.)..
Here are five (aspirational!) ways to feel productive and find meaning during this season without getting burnt out: (Alternative title from ChatGPT: "Holistic Holiday Harmony: A Self-Care Routine for Church Professionals During the Festive Season".)
Find Time for Mindfulness Start your day with a few moments of mindfulness. Whether it's a short meditation, prayer, or quiet reflection, grounding yourself in the morning can set a positive tone for the day ahead. Schedule short breaks throughout your day to prevent burnout. Use this time to stretch, take a brief walk, or engage in a calming activity. These moments of respite can enhance focus and productivity. Yes, some work breaks are a great time to review your niece’s Amazon Wish List, but don’t spend every minute trying to accomplish something. As the day comes to a close, wind down gradually. Engage in activities that help transition from work to personal time, like calling a friend on the way home, taking the dog for a walk down your favorite festive block, or listening to a new holiday album. Take a moment each evening to reflect on the day. Acknowledge your accomplishments, express gratitude for the support around you, and recognize the positive impact of your work within the church community. Consider a simple journal or social media ritual to note or celebrate these things.
Be Realistic with your Plans Begin your workday by outlining your priorities. Identify key tasks for both personal and professional realms, and create a realistic schedule that accommodates your responsibilities at the church and personal holiday preparations.
Flexibility is Key The holidays is one of those times that boundaries between home and work life can get blurred, not just because you might participate in your church’s holiday services, but because your home schedule will require grace and flexibility from your work schedule and colleagues. Acknowledge that the holiday season can be unpredictable. Build flexibility into your schedule to accommodate unexpected tasks or events that may arise in both your professional and personal life. Communicate your needs clearly to your family and co-workers…actually, let’s just make this its own entry…
Clear Communication Communicate openly with your church community about your schedule and availability. Setting clear expectations ensures that everyone is on the same page, reducing potential stressors and allowing for a more harmonious work environment. Recognize the power of collaboration and delegation. Share responsibilities with colleagues at the church, fostering a sense of teamwork. This not only lightens your load but also strengthens the bonds within your work community. As you work to be realistic and flexible with yourself, remember to grant that same grace to you colleagues!
Nourishment for Body and Soul Prioritize nutritious meals and stay hydrated. If possible, share a meal with colleagues to strengthen interpersonal connections. Take time to stock up on some of your favorite holiday traditional foods or store-bought treats. Having those on-hand in the office can breathe some festive air into a hectic time. Try not to let go of the habits and practices that help you feel balanced. Don’t skip the meal prep, yoga, or therapy appointments!
Through clear communication, grace and flexibility, and a flair for the festive, may we all enjoy a balanced and fulfilling festive season.
