Those who follow me on Facebook know my spring cleaning also includes cleaning out old files from my computer. I got to post a great throwback of my wife and daughter, from just a few days after she was born the other day. Today, I found an old power point presentation, and I’m really not sure where it came from. Possibly an old lecture from when I was working on my masters? However, it is on the topic of stress and burnout, so curiosity got the better of me and I am glad it did. I hope you enjoy the information I gleaned from it.
There are many reasons why we begin with ministry. Sometimes we see a need and want to help. Other times, it is because we are called. Yet, most psychologists would say participation is to fulfill a personal need, and is probably related to money, job, satisfaction, relationships, and interest or personal challenges. These reasons are neither positive nor negative in and of themselves. So the question is raised, when does it become negative, and what then happens?
It becomes negative when demands increase to a physically unmanageable level. You see, generalized, stress is a physical concept. It characterized by over engagement and produces hyperactivity. As Stress builds, Hyperactivity gives way to energy loss, and emotions then become over reactive. As the energy to manage emotions runs dry, stress then gives way to burnout.
Burnout is primarily emotional and psychological. Our top characterizations of it describe the willingness to disengage. Over reacted emotions become blunted, and you find yourself detached from what you use to care about and heading towards depression. In short, there becomes a lack of motivation to meet the needs listed above.
To counteract this, we need to focus on four aspects of our lives: physical, practical, emotional and psychological. Physically, be mindful of what you put in your body such as processed sugars. Make sure you get not only enough sleep, but also regular sleep. Exercise regularly for at least 20-30 minutes each week as well. Practically, know what your limits are and find ways to slow down. Emotionally, find ways to play and find ways to laugh. The benefits of this affect everything from heart rate to chemical production in the brain. Psychologically, learn to enjoy the process of life events rather than simply the end results. Know the difference between planning and worrying. Finally, learn how to be mindful of your present state of being. In other words, notice places in your body where you carry stress (such as your shoulders), and practice relaxing these areas through meditation and breathing.
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