Burnout is defined as physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress. Burnout is very real and can affect many different aspects of the workforce. Philanthropic burnout is essentially burnout in the nonprofit sector. Philanthropic burnout can occur when leaders in a nonprofit organization work themselves thin for the cause they are advocating for. Nonprofit organizations are commonly understaffed and struggle to find volunteers to help with tasks. Piling on top of being understaffed is looking for grants, and organizing events for their organization. This article will discuss some tactics that can be implemented to reduce the risk of philanthropic burnout.
Vacation
The best way to reduce stress and the risk of philanthropic burnout is to take some time off and enjoy a vacation away. Taking a vacation will allow you to get away from the environments that cause you stress. Decreasing stress levels on vacation will allow your mind to come back refreshed and rejuvenated. A vacation can allow you to come back to work feeling more creative and ready to take on the tasks of your job. Give yourself a well-deserved vacation and observe how your mental and physical state shifts.
Exercise
You may be thinking that exercise is the last thing you want to do after a stressful day at work. Exercise is proven to reduce anxiety and make you feel better upon completing a workout. Not only will you be reducing the risk of burnout but working towards better health at the same time.
Rest Periods
Resting regularly is helpful in reducing the risk of burnout. If you don’t want to take an entire vacation to destress consider taking small breaks throughout the day to destress and calm yourself. One suggestion is to try the 6/7 rule. For every six hours that you work take one hour off to collect yourself. You can also try taking one entire day off for six days that you work. The goal is to take enough time for yourself during the day to clear your head and relax so you can avoid burnout and get back to changing the world more productively.
Connect With People
Reach out to people who may be struggling with the same issues of burnout that you are. Other nonprofit leaders may be able to relate to your struggles, and you both can work together to find solutions to philanthropic burnout while also making a friend!