It’s that time of year. School is gearing up. Organizations that were less active during the summer are getting back into full swing. Fall fundraisers are getting planned. Thanksgiving is around the corner. And YOU are getting a lot of requests to volunteer.
How many times in the past have you said “yes” out of a sense of obligation or because you want to please the person asking? Then, later you felt anger and resentment. “Why is it always me?” ” Why can’t others do it this year?”
Now, I’m not saying to just sit on your hands and do nothing. It feels good to help others. But ……choose! Don’t try to do it all. You know you can’t really do a good job if you are spread too thin or are trying to make yourself do something you don’t even enjoy.
Get a vision of what you want to do that will make you happy and feel fulfilled. Know how much time you can devote to an outside charity or organization without feeling stressed or used. Take into consideration what is already going on in your life right now. Practice saying, “I can’t do that now. I have too many other things I have to take care of.” Learn to smile and say, “No, that is not the best use of my time right now.”
You deserve – no, need – to take care of yourself first. You are not able to help anyone if you are exhausted and stressed. Then, you want to take care of others as you can.
Choose wisely and enjoy this season. Breathe.
Jonda S. Beattie Professional Organizer