Derail or Jump? – The View from The Bridge

As a society, we have made “Life” in itself so demanding, and when we add to it the stresses, woes, and requirements of the workplace, what an equation we have found ourselves trying to solve! Ever heard the phrase, Work, Life, Balance? Employers across the nation are recognizing that in order for employees to be successful at carrying out the tasks and responsibilities required by the job, there has to be some “give” or flexibility.

I applaud the employers who not only put this on paper in their mission statements, but really see the value in putting this into action for the betterment of their employees. Knowing that if you need to take off for an hour here or there to manage family situations, or even work from home for the day and still have a place of employment, gives one peace of mind and a sense of relief. But then there are the situations where individuals may not have an employer or a position where this is feasible. What happens then, and how does one make it work for self, family, and home life? Unfortunately, we have all heard and most likely know someone who has experienced a panic attack, stroke, mental breakdown or even a heart attack- all because of the stresses of trying to do too much around work, family, and personal obligations, and having no visible end in sight.

Without a doubt, I truly believe that we were put on this earth by God to serve, but service requires truly being available, intentional and focused on the task. If you are not mentally and physically available, then your service is for what? Daily we get up and begin with broken down spirits, mental exhaustion, health issues, relationship problems…yes, you know what I am talking about, but we just keep on going.

Imagine boarding a train, and after being on the train for a while, the speed picks up and then gradually starts to increase a little faster, and then even faster. There is no way to slow it down, and you see it is headed for a derailment. Do you jump, or do you derail? As you are deciding what do, realize that yes, we have to work for financial stability, but if I am not balanced and relieved of some of the stresses of work and life, I won’t be at work. I won’t “Be” at all!
Jump! Take the leap of faith for your health and sanity, otherwise you will derail.
1. Put yourself on the schedule: Build 2 Minute Gap Time into your day. Take a deep breath, Relax and Breathe
2. Establish boundaries
3. Remember “No” and “Maybe” as answers to requests, and not always “Yes”
4. Take time off. Use your vacation and personal days each year
5. Get up and don’t eat lunch at your desk- Go outside, to your car or drive around the block
Until Next Time, Be Sincere, Kind and Intentional
Jackie Warner, Community Outreach Specialist
Email: thebridge.us@gmail.com
Check out upcoming events: Website: http://thebridge-us.yolasite.com/