Step Away From the Computer
Posted on June 29th, 2009 by Cynthia D'Amour
Now!
I started working at 5:30 AM today.
- I have a lot on my to-do list.
- Seven hours later I’m grumpy and hungry.
- (Time flies when you’re having fun.)
I stop for a moment.
- James leaves to pick up lunch.
- I grab something to drink.
- And then it happened…
My universe shifted.
- A voice in my head bellowed.
- “Ma’am step away from the computer.”
- Like a cop trying to talk down an almost murderer.
Totally spooked me!
- Was I watching too much TV?
- Or not enough?
- The voice in my head had found reinforcements!
I’ve still got a lot to do today.
- But think I need some down time.
- I’m heeding the voice.
- And checking out for a few hours.
(I don’t want to see my mind escalate to the next level to get my cooperation!)
Makes me think of chapter leaders…how do you know when it’s time to walk away for a spell?
Filed under: Savvy Leadership
This also makes me ask the question: “Are we tolerant and understanding when our volunteers need to take a break?”
Our volunteers work so hard and sometimes just can’t participate. Do our associations have the structure in place to support a little “down time” for our most prominent volunteers? It may just be for a few days or a week, but is there some one there to fill the need?
Just curious.
That’s an interesting question Lynn.
I’ve heard of people getting breaks at big events - but what about in the every day volunteer work?
Taking it a step further, if you can’t stay a volunteer for a week or so and keep everything moving forward it becomes a risk management issue for your chapter.
What would happen if the beer truck hit the same person who you couldn’t afford to let have a week off?