Energizing Self and Others

by Eileen McDargh -

Tips for Relighting After Burnout:

The current environment brings additional stress to our homes and offices. You all probably know some of the symptoms.

Here are but a few. Check them off and then consider some actions. 

Some Burnout Symptoms: 

• Work leaves you physically and emotionally drained. 

• You feel like you are accomplishing less and doing more. 

• You put your work first but no one appreciates your efforts. 

• You’ve lost your sense of humor and playfulness. 

• You find yourself short-tempered and angry. 

• You go on vacation but the feeling of overwhelm comes back immediately upon return. 

What can you do to gain a sense of control? 

Consider just some of these options: 

• Hold certain times sacred. Mark off a period of time for yourself on your calendar and treat it with gold. 

• Learn to say “no” by creating realistic boundaries. Speak up when you are overwhelmed. Remember, no one but YOU knows what you really do in the course of a day. Establish limits that honor the needs of the people around you while preserving the integrity of what you can honestly do. 

• Create a workspace that nurtures your soul. Whether it’s filled with pictures of the grandkids or flowers from your garden, this space must speak of you. 

• Exercise to burn off stress. 

• Allow 15 minutes in the morning just for you. This is quiet time for centering, breathing, preparing for the day. You’ll be glad you did. 

Remember: 

You are the captain of your ship. Pay attention to the wind and waves.

eileenmcdargh.com

Surviving Turmoil and Reclaiming Your Resilient Spirit

by Eileen McDargh - 

Our spirits are taking a beating. The daily barrage of bad news, violence, shrinking resources, global warming and economic turmoil can put us in a state of frustration and paralysis.  

Some days, getting out of bed can be a challenge.  

Within the word "resilience" are actions we can take to reclaim our bounce-back ability.

RECLAIMING YOUR RESILIENT SPIRIT

R: Remember to breathe.  

The ability to calm down is critical in order to take stock and move forward. 

E: Enlist support of others.  

Love people and be lovable in return. A supportive family (whether genetic or hand-picked) is what keeps people alive. The English word wretched comes from the Middle English word wrecche which means "without kin nearby. 

S: Stay focused.  

Intentionality lays the groundwork for what we want in our life. See it, say it and claim it. Don't let external forces cloud your vision. 

I: Identify your strengths.  

Energy and good health are two of the most essential ingredients in resiliency. Work on your physical well being first because it is the quickest way to gain control over a world that is uncontrollable. 

L: Laugh out loud.  

You'll be amazed at the looks you get. And you'll feel better. 

I: Insist on optimism.  

Positive mental health comes from the ability to reframe a situation. This is not the Pollyanna or head-in-sand avoidance of reality but rather a recall of ways in which you have handled similar situations. 

E: Extend yourself to others.  

Self-absorption backfires. It only serves to deepen depression and worry. Going out to serve others lifts the cloud around yourself and allows you to become both blessed and a blessing. 

N: Never say "never".  

The resilient spirit knows that there is always tomorrow. 

T: Thanks-give it! 
There is much to be grateful for.

eileenmcdargh.com