February 2004 Food For Thought
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IN THIS ISSUE:
Self-Assessment" Preventing Burnout

"Adopting the right attitude can convert a negative stress into a positive one."�
" Dr. Hans Selye


Are You Taking the Proper Steps?
A Self-Assessment for Preventing Burnout

Print and make several copies of the self-assessment below. Put them in the break room or perhaps place copies in employees' personal mailboxes and/or lockers. It will help your employees gauge where they're at in terms of preventing burnout.

Take a look at the questions below, and answer them honestly" they could help you assess how well you can cope with stress and even burnout.

1. How well do you take care of yourself?
a) How many fruits and vegetables do you eat a day? The daily recommendation by the U.S. Department of Agriculture is five servings. And there's no reason not to pile them on your plate" a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated a lower risk of stroke, cataracts cancer and a healthier life overall.

b) Do you exercise on a regular basis? The Surgeon General recommends that adults should exercise 30 total minutes (or more) on most, preferably all days of the week.

c) Do you get enough sleep every night? As we get older, we don't need less sleep, but we often get less sleep. According to the National Institutes of Health, most adults should get about 8 hours a day.


2. What do you do in your free time?
Having something to look forward to after your workday is over is crucial to keeping stress levels low. Having a meaningful, fulfilling life outside the workplace will help protect you from burnout. Make time for the things you enjoy. Spend time with those that make you happy.

3. How's your social life?
A strong network of friends and family is key when you're dealing with stress and burnout. If you feel you're lacking in this department, try tuning into a talk radio show. You'll find that many people are facing the same issues as yourself" in the absence of talking to someone in person, this could be of great help. Bottom line: you need someone to talk to and who can also relate to you.

Theses fundamentals are critical to maintaining good health as well as helping you cope with stress and burnout. However, if you're applying all of the methods above and still not coping well, you should seek the help of a professional. Consult a doctor, psychologist or other helpful health professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.