Maybe all you need is a vacation?
- Posted on August 19, 2012
- in Blog posts
- by Natasha Golinsky
Burnout. Stress. Overwhelm…all common complaints of today’s nonprofit executive director. Research shows that the turnover rate in the CEO role is incredibly high with EDs staying in one spot for only 2-3 years with the reason for leaving most often attributed to stress.
In my work with nonprofit leaders, I have no doubt that the job takes a toll on you emotionally, physically, mentally and spiritually but also contend that planning to quit your job because the work load is too much may not be your only option. When was the last time you took some time off? When I say time off, I don’t mean just take a long weekend but when did was the last time you took a week or two off just to reflect and refresh?
As much as your team and your clients need you to take care of them, how well are you taking care of yourself? Without you as the leader in tip-top emotional shape, everyone loses. You are the key player on your organization’s team and you need to look at your energy as one of the most important resources you have to work with.
Before you make any drastic decisions about the future of your career as an ED, take some time off. Think about the goals that you have for your future and what matters to you most. You will find that after a few days away from the continuous pressure of your job that you gain perspective, find your excitement again for your cause, and come up with many creative ideas to solve your org’s biggest challenges.
Have you taken a vacation this year? If not, why not?
Tags: reduce overwhelm, reduce stress, stress management
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