Take a Break

Interrupt, relax, become less tense. Stressors at work and home generate burnout and poor coping skills which creates barriers in compassionate care (Taylor et al., 2019). Planning days off of work can reduce overload, stress and burnout (Westman & Eden, 1997). Why not take breaks to relieve stressors?  Add short interactive activities to your day.  This may include self-care, motivation, celebration, acknowledgment of values,  and/or volunteerism. Go out to lunch with a friend. Plan a mental health day. Take that vacation.

Try to reduce stress by taking deep breaths, journaling, exercising, getting sleep, making connections, celebrating successes, avoiding trigger words, prioritizing tasks, avoiding caffeine and other stimulants especially in the afternoon, turning off electronics, optimizing a sleep space, keeping to a routine, seeking help (Active Minds) and by taking a break.

Stress can motivate someone to reach goals, enhance efficiency and encourage problem solving.  But learning to identify stressors and how stress impacts both your personal and professional relationships can build compassion and enhance relationships (Taylor et al, 2019).

References:

Taylor, B., LeBlanc, L. A., Nosik, M. (2019). Compassionate Care in Behavior Analytic Treatment: Can Outcomes be Enhanced by Attending to Relationships with Caregivers? Behavior Analysis in Practice. 12: 654-666.

Westman, M., Eden, D. (1997) Effects of a respite from work on burnout: Vacation relief and fade-out. Journal of Applied Psychology. 82:4.