What Greece Taught Me About Burnout Prevention: Always Have Something to Give
rich history, and incredible food. But beyond the typical tourist there was
V something unique
attractions, about
the Greek hospitality that left a lasting impression on me. Nearly every time we dined at a restaurant, just as we asked for the bill, the waiter would arrive with a complimentary dessert. The first night, it was a delicious orange cake; another time, it was fresh watermelon. Even when we purchased locally made olive oil from a roadside stand, the seller included three oranges in our bag as a thank-you gift. This recurring gesture of generosity inspired a concept I now call "Always Have Something to Give." It’s a practice rooted in intentionality. The man with the oranges planned to give them away; he didn’t just happen to have them. The restaurants prepared extra desserts for every customer. It wasn’t coincidental— it was deliberate.
Applying This to Burnout Prevention Imagine if we approached our work with the same mindset. Instead of stretching ourselves thin and eventually burning out, we could have our proverbial basket of oranges at our side, ensuring we never run out of juice. Here’s how this concept can help in preventing burnout: 1. Intentional Planning: Just as the Greek hosts planned their gifts, we need to plan our self-care. This means setting aside time and resources for activities that replenish
34 ❘ November 2024 ®
isiting Greece this past summer was an unforgettable experience, filled with beautiful landscapes,
us. It’s about being proactive rather than reactive.
2. Small Acts of Generosity: These don’t have to be grand gestures. Simple, small acts—like taking a short walk, enjoying a piece of fruit, or spending a few minutes in meditation—can be immensely rejuvenating.
3. Consistent Replenishment: Ensure that you regularly replenish your reserves. This could mean daily exercise, weekly hobbies, or monthly retreats. The key is consistency.
4. Personalized Self-Care: Everyone’s basket of oranges will look different. For some, it might be journaling or spending time with loved ones. For others, it might be learning a new skill or engaging in creative activities. Find what works for you.
Interestingly, in Greece, the custom
is to give these little gifts to others. But when it comes to burnout, I'm suggesting that you give these gifts to yourself.
What Will You Put in Your Orange Basket? To prevent burnout, you need to intentionally set aside something that keeps you energized and fulfilled. Here are a few ideas: Exercise:
Incorporate physical
activity into your daily routine, whether it’s a morning run, yoga, or a dance class.
Meditation: Spend a few minutes
each day in mindfulness or meditation to clear your mind and reduce stress. Journaling: Reflect on your thoughts and experiences through writing. It can be a powerful way to process emotions and gain insights.
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