Course 2: Becoming a 7 Cups Leader - (Discussion #11) Avoiding Burnout
7 Cups is founded on a community of passionate volunteers who lovingly dedicate their time to providing support.
You may face what is called burnout during your journey. You may have already faced this in your real life. Burnout is very real and must be recognized. You can't help fuel someone else when your tank is empty, after all!
To address and learn about burnout, we have created a slidedeck on how to avoid burnout.
Activity: Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
Then, please reply to 3 of your peers in this thread with encouraging or supportive words!
After completing the course quiz, please proceed to this post!
This post is brought to you by the Leadership Development Program Team, find out more information about the program here.
@Heather225
Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
BURN OUT IS REAL! I have experienced burn out personally in my life and it is awful. This was very important and helpful in learning how to fall victim to burn out and recognize the signs. I learned to reflect on my ability and take on only what I am physically and mentally able to do. I also learned to evaluate patterns in my burn out symptoms and attack what the issue might be and how to make changes to prevent these symptoms. It is also important to regularly take time for myself in self-care and set time/commitment boundaries when necessary. If I recognize burn out, I will remember the "why" as to why I am volunteering and my goal as a volunteer, communicate with others my struggles to find solutions, and make efforts to balance my life again through reflection of what energy, time, and efforts I have available.
@mikacv
I really enjoyed reading this comment :) Well done
this is a lovely reply, i could not agree more<3
@Heather225
I just learnt how easy it is to push your limits and exhaust yourself just like that. I have been in this situation earlier and in order to avoid it, I have made it onto a habit of deciding how much time I am going to spend here before entering 7 cups. I also started taking small breaks once a chat is over before moving on to the next person. Listening to songs or even chatting with other listeners helps me.
@DancingHeart4982
I agree, I always try and have a couple of chats on at the same time I try not to take too many on at once.
@DancingHeart4982 That's wonderful!
i agree it can be really difficult to remember to take care of yourself! I also love listening to music it really helps me a lot
@Heather225
Activity: Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
I have learnt that the burnout symptoms can also be physical such as gastrointestinal pain. I try my best to not burn out, I do loads of different things such as studying at university and I have a job, but I try and have regular breaks, to do some art to relax and destress. To drink plenty of water to keep hydrated.
@Kindwords2000
I found myself surprised at some of the burnout symptoms as well!
@Kindwords2000
In short, almost all common issues are somehow related to burnouts to be frank.
I learnt that when experiencing burn out, it is wise to remember my why, set boundaries and get time away. Self care breaks and logging off completely for some days is also important
@DarkPiT23
Self-care is so important in preventing burnout. When we give ourselves some time, we take care of ourselves, thus allowing us to take care of others!
@DarkPiT23 You used the right term - It's WISE!!!!
- Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
= Watch my online time and keep a positive attitude.
@Listeningstars
I think watching the amount of time we are online is a great form of self-care that can help to reduce burnout!
@Listeningstars I totally agree!
@Listeningstars it is nice to see what is most important to you. I thank you for your online time to do some good vibes.
@Heather225
Activity: Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
I learned that nausea, increased illness, and anxiety can all be signs of burnout. What I will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout is establish healthy boundaries, focus on self-care, and get some daily downtime!
@Gnibellen @Heather225 I've also learnt to get some downtime (:
@Gnibellen i wish you best of luck in your next adventures.
@Gnibellen Agree with you!! A regular down time is the key to not end up getting burnt out.
@Gnibellen
Hello there!
I love How you pointed out The matter of setting The boundaries. It is truly important and significant aspect of staying healthy and on track. So, Thank you for mentioning that:).
Sending strenght and energy!
Lots of love,
🌸Hana🌸
@Gnibellen
yay. focusing on self care.
@Gnibellen establishing healthy boundaries are very important because not setting them drains us which then leads to burnout and other problems.
@Heather225 I've learned that I should take breaks when I feel fatigued, cynical, or pessimistic. I'll remember to take breaks to reflect on my thoughts and I will always remember my why!
@hopezzy i wish you good luck in your adventure.
@hopezzy
Hello there!
I completely share The same view! Breaks are extremely important even though it might not always, at least to me, be seen like that. Thank you for mentioning that, i love How you pointed that out.
Sending strenght and energy!
Lots of love,
🌸Hana🌸
Activity: Please read it through and in the replies, tell us what you learned, and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
i have learned more about what burnout is and signs of it.
To stay healty we should check signs of burnout time to time. Get time away and self-care is important. Reflect on your available time for volunteering is should be carefully planned to avoid burnout.
@dudewithaplan Absolutely! Keeping a check on the signs is important.
@dudewithaplan
Hello there!
I totally agree! Time management and setting our free time is extremely important. Thank you for pointing it out, it is truly significant aspect of our wellbeing!
Sending strenght and energy!
Lots of love,
🌸Hana🌸
Please read it thru and in the replies, tell us what you learned,and what you will do to stay healthy and avoid burnout!
Remember your why: wWhydo you volunteer for 7 Cups
Well, I learnt that it is important to not get burnt out for being healthy and productive. And it is ok to take time off to get better if you are having signs of burnt out.
I will reflect if I am feeling burnout. If necessary I will connect with the community manager or peers for support. Well! I understand switching off is ok to take care of yourself….because you can only help other if you are well.