Recently, I came across a website that provided a lot of information on “compassion fatigue” (see www.compassionfatigue.org). Basically, compassion fatigue occurs when we care so much about others that we fail to take care of ourselves. There are some good articles on how to take care of yourself and prevent burnout in this website. Also, there was a list of 8 laws to apply to our lives to help prevent compassion fatigue. I would like to share these with you and add a bit to them.

Law #1- Take frequent breaks from what you are doing.

To often in our “go go” society, we fail to take a break. Our bodies need a natural break or we will collapse. Learn to take a day of rest.

 

Law #2- Learn the word “No” and use it when necessary.

How many of you have a hard time saying “no”? Many people who struggle with “no” have great intentions to help and to please others, but failing to promote healthy boundaries will lead to burnout and compassion fatigue.

 

Law #3- Share the load with others.

This can be hard for some of us because we rationalize that we don’t want to burden someone else or that we can just do it quicker if we do it ourselves. There are so many blessings when we work together as a team and learn to rely and trust others. So much more can be accomplished.

 

Law #4- There is humor in every situation. Find it and laugh.

Humor is therapeutic and allows us to gain additional perspective in tough times.

 

Law #5- Recognize when you need help. Ask for it.

Also, I would suggest that you let others know your personal struggles in confidence. As you become vulnerable, you will experience a new freedom. Don’t be afraid to ask. It’s not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of inner strength.

 

Law #6- Give yourself credit when credit is do.

This is hard for many of us. Think about how often someone gives you a sincere compliment and you respond by saying, “Oh, it was not that big of a deal”. This is called a thought distortion of “disqualifying the positive”. Learn to embrace compliments from others, and compliment and reward yourself.

 

Law #7- Give others credit when credit is do.

Let others know that you appreciate the work they are doing. When you encourage other people, you will find that these people will want to be around you more and support and encourage you.

 

Law #8- Breathe deeply as often as possible.

You will survive. Taking a moment to pause and reflect can help you become more centered and regain your perspective during tough times.

 

If you are proactive in doing these things, you will be less likely to collapse during difficult times. Stay the course and use these proactive strategies to prevent yourself from collapsing when the “going gets tough”.