I am about to go on vacation so that I will not be writing here for the next 10 days. I just got back from a training workshop that we require all pastors to go through that deals with clergy ethics. One of the aspects of that workshop that came up over and over is that when clergy get into problems more than likely they have not been doing well in self-care. One of the reasons I am leaving for this time.

It was interesting the the Tuesday Serving E strong dealt with ways of releasing stress. Here is the article.
Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.

Relieficus Valvum

Imagine being under extreme pressure. Your work is demanding more of you than ever before. Your caseload is piling up. Email is overwhelming. The needs of people seem endless (like a bottomless bowl of spaghetti). The burdens seem deeper and darker.

What's that you say? You don't have to imagine it? It's what you're living right now?

Relieficus Valvum

In moments like these we need what I call "Relieficus Valvum" -- the intentional integration of Relief Valves into the fabric of life.

What is a Relief Valve?

A Relief Valve is anything that takes you completely away from your profession for a period of time. I mean COMPLETELY AWAY. It's a block of time when there is no mention of others' burdens or needs. Relief Valves come in a variety of shapes and types. Some people do crossword puzzles. Others kayak on a lake. For some, running or playing basketball serves as relief.

"But" you ask, "Isn't that selfish? I should be available to my span of care at all times, right?" Are you kidding? Of course not! How in the world can you give 100% to your profession if all you do is expend your energy without refueling? Stephen Covey coined the phrase "sharpening your saw." If you don't stop to sharpen, you end up trying to cut down your proverbial trees with a dull blade - unnecessary hard work leading to burnout. Sometimes sharpening your saw means stepping away for a moment or a season.

How do I incorporate my own Relief Valves?

First, identify your unique Valves. To discover them, reflect on what you truly enjoy doing just for the sake of doing it. This can be a hobby, exercise, or whatever gives you pleasure AWAY FROM YOUR PROFESSION.

Second, schedule your Valve events. Calendar some appointments with yourself to pursue these Valves on occasion. Make it part of your daily, weekly, or monthly routine.

Those who serve strong in the people helping professions build in Relieficus Valvum. Are you serving strong?

I'll "see" you right here next week.

I know that vacations are one way. I also believe that everyone has to find some way they have to release their stresses. And maybe it does take actually writing it in one's calendar. Another way is Sabbath. So take some time for yourself and for those who are special to you today.