Still Burning?

Did you think last week's tips were it to conquer burnout? Well they weren't!! But it was a start. How did it go for you? Were you able to find 5 minutes a day just for you? If not, work on it. You really can't be available for those who need you if you have zero time for yourself.

How else can you create time for yourself? Say No!!! This goes hand in hand with last week's tip of reevaluating your responsibilities.

It might sound pretty easy, but how many of you actually feel comfortable saying "no" when asked to pick up an extra child in the carpool, make cupcakes for a work party, clean for your Mother-in-law's visit? Saying "no" is really difficult. If we say no we often feel as if we are failing, being selfish, not meeting expectations, or being lazy. Well, unfortunately no one is going to say "no" for you and NO ONE is going to take care of you but yourself. If you don't start saying "no" people are just going to pile more on you or expect that you are going to pick up the slack. You have to stick up for yourself and set boundaries to keep yourself healthy. But how do you do that?

1. How will this request impact your life?

Is your boss asking you to stay late which is annoying but could potentially increase your year-end bonus? Is your sister-in-law asking you to watch her kids which will mean you could miss spending time with your husband who you rarely see? Think about the pros and cons of saying "no" or taking on the task. Sometimes, you will have to take on a task that in the short run could contribute to burnout but in the long run will lessen the burn.

2. Why are you feeling guilty about saying "no"?

Is the person to whom you are saying "no" going to give you a guilt trip? Don't let them. Keep reminding yourself that you are taking care of you and need to say "no" in order to do so.

Is it tough to say "no" because you always say "yes"? It will take a while to get used to saying "no" but the discomfort is worth it in the long run.

3. Do you feel like you are not meeting expectations?

Chances are those expectations are your own. Give yourself a break and don't expect so much! Would you expect this much from someone else?

4. Say No.

Now the tough part - try saying "no" to one thing this week.

See how it goes. Were you uncomfortable at first? But were you thankful in the long run?

Try it out and see!!