When you’re feeling depleted and burnt-out it is hard to think of putting energy forth as a way to renew your own well-being. At times, it’s not, and you have to rest and replenish; however, putting forth energy, especially into meaningful activities can have a restorative effect.
You probably know that physical exercise is the “wonder drug” for health – physical, emotional and mental. Just 30 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 times a week is effective to improve cardiovascular fitness, decrease risks for osteoporosis and diabetes, improve lung capacity, and improve self-confidence and mood as well as memory and focus.
When you put energy into meaningful activities, you connect with something bigger than yourself, to your values and even to your sense of purpose; some people call this spiritual activity. These efforts may simultaneously renew your energy even as they use your energy. There are also times when you need to make a conscious effort to balance your care of others with adequate self-care; this is especially true for nurses and physicians. Self-compassion and self-care can go a long way to sustaining your energy for the meaningful work that you do.
Engaging in flow activities also enhances well-being. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi coined the meaning of flow as “being completely involved in an activity for its own sake. The ego falls away. Time flies. Every action, movement, and thought follows inevitably from the previous one, like playing jazz. Your whole being is involved, and you’re using your skills to the utmost.”
Have you ever had the feeling of being all fired up after doing something that took effort and was something you’re good at? Participating in activities that provide you with a sense of accomplishment enhances your well-being. Often the most engaging activities are those that challenge you enough to provoke interest but are not so challenging that you are overwhelmed; activities when your successes are meaningful. These activities allow you to be in a state of flow. While doing these you may lose track of time. When you emerge there may be a paradox of wanting more, being enlivened and fatigued.
Below are a few questions to ask yourself. Fill in the blank 6 times. You may see contradictions as well as patterns in your responses.
- When I am doing _____ I lose track of time.
- I feel most alive when I am ______
- I am at my best when _______
Now, ask yourself, “What small action would make it possible for me to do more of this?” You might want to choose an action that is hardly noticeable since it will probably be easier to integrate into your life. In what way would this change contribute to your well-being?
To explore the best self-care for you and what you can do to move from burnout to well-being, contact me for a consultation.
Revitalize Your Life,
Dina, 203.744.YOU3 (9683)
Improving well-being for professionals through coaching.
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