You're young, fired up, and ready to make your mark. But in the whirlwind of courses and campaigns, the sneaky shadow of burnout can quickly creep in.
Here are four underrated and actionable self-care strategies to keep you grounded while you work to make the world a better place - without losing yourself in the process.
Micro-mindfulness is a lesser-known cousin of meditation that you may have never heard of before. It's a simple way to center yourself when things seem hectic in your world. It’s also a more flexible, accessible, and less intimidating entry point into a mindfulness practice - especially if you’re new to mindfulness or are limited by time constraints.
The benefits: Practicing micro-mindfulness is a more immediate way to enhance your mental clarity and reduce stress. Over time, you might notice that it’s easier for you to make sound decisions and maintain focus in high-pressure situations.
As the age-old African proverb goes, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” When doing social impact work, you must build a support network of like-minded individuals to help you go further.
The benefits: Finding your tribe helps you foster a sense of belonging and provides a support system that can help you navigate challenges and celebrate victories.
In a world that emphasizes hustle as a way of life, you might be surprised to see this one on the list. Sometimes, you might even find yourself putting your hobbies or even rest on the back burner while you’re focused on making the world a better place. Still, prioritizing leisure is necessary, because rest is part of your work, too. So, whether it's reading, painting, or simply lounging in a hammock—these breaks are paramount for your long-term health and sustainability.
The benefits: Prioritizing leisure time helps you recharge your energy, boost creativity, and provide a fresh perspective when returning to your mission.
The digital world is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it allows us to connect and be more accessible than ever. At the same time, being “always on” can be distracting and lead to feelings of anxiety and overwhelm.
Benefits: Just like our electronic devices, there are times when we’ll need to “power down” to keep working. Doing a digital detox can help you increase your productivity while fostering a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you without distractions.
While you’re focusing on solving some of society’s toughest problems, remember that changing the world isn't a sprint—it's more like a marathon with hurdles, pit stops, and scenic views.
Let our Connect Stories be a source of wisdom and motivation for you as you work toward making your mark. With each story, you’ll learn about the roads these impact-driven experts traveled to reach the pinnacle of success, while overcoming obstacles, recovering from self-doubt, and learning from mistakes.
Explore Connect Stories to see how these driven individuals have made a difference and get the inspiration you need on your journey to creating a lasting impact.