Sometimes it's really easy to vent
about the things that are going wrong in your life. Especially at work. There's
a funny pintrest quote that I've seen around that reads, "If I died and
went to hell, it would take me a week to realize I wasn't at work
anymore." Unfortunately that can seem true sometimes, but when times are
frustrating at work, try to remember the positive things. In my experience,
it's what gets you through the tough times, and it's a great way to stay
positive for yourself and your co-workers.
Here are some tips for mixing things up and being happier
at work:
· Remember to be energetic, patient, and positive through the changes.
If others see our excitement, they are more willing to partake in our positive
attitudes.
· At staff meetings, don't just ask questions or say that
"nothing is new". Always say at least one positive thing that's going
on in your program. For example, "Johnny is really comeing out of his
shell this year. He's been helping more at Mass and has encouraged other
students to participate in service projects. We are so proud of him!"
· If your office doesn't get any sunlight, take a walk around
your office or building at least once a day. Or if you're planning a project
that you don't have to be in your office for, go outside. Fresh air could do
you some good!
· If you have a meeting with someone, meet for coffee or ice
cream to change things up! Some of my most productive and enjoyable meetings
have been over lunch or coffee. It's also a fun way to check out the new coffee
shop in town and support local businesses. God broke bread with people while he
was on earth...he's calling us to do the same!
· Take a break sometimes and also use your vacation days!
That's what they're there for! Don't be afraid to ask your boss. What's the
worst thing that could happen; they say "no”? Popcorn/cake breaks as a whole staff are nice
too! I also try to make it to a retreat
once a year. Not a retreat you plan or send kids to...one for you! I haven't
been to one in a year and 6 months, and I can tell my spirit is in desperate
need of the experience. Remember, on the 7th day God rested. And so should you.
· STAFF RETREAT!!! Best
idea ever! This fall we started off the
school year with a retreat with our whole staff. We went to a cabin on a lake and spent the
day. We had some time for reflection on
our ministries and also had a lot of fun.
I even got to go jet skiing. Did
I mention I got paid for this day? So
great. I encourage all companies to take
a staff day together. It’s a great way to see people in a different way and
build community. Remember when Jesus didn’t
do his ministry alone? He had a
community of people!
· Networking! Ever get have a brain fart at work and can't
think of any new ideas? Make friends with other people who are in your field
who don't work with you. I can't tell you the amazing new ideas I get from
other youth ministers around the country as well as the support they give during
difficult times. I love sharing with
them as well. We are all working towards
building His Kingdom; let us help others by giving out the tools!
· Social Networking! We live in a world where we have blogs,
twitter, facebook, pinterest, etc. Use these resources for your benefit. Follow
a youth minster or priest on facebook or twitter, or perhaps read a Catholic
blog once in a while. (I love Life Teen's blog.) Something I've been trying
lately is twitter. It's really new to me and a little scary, but I think the
benefits will be endless! I've also joined a facebook group for youth minsters
in my diocese. It's very helpful!
· Play jokes. I’m not
very good at this one because I can get a little shy. But for our priest’s bday party we played a
couple jokes on him and it was great.
Who knew a whoopee cushion would be so funny even in our adult
life? Haha
· Don’t forget to ask for help. I often try to do things myself because I try
to be “Miss Independent” and I don’t want to bother people. But people are usually very willing to help
you out, especially if you work for a church.
I ask my assistant for a million things a day, and I couldn’t do my job
without her! This works both ways...if someone asks for help...don't complain about it, help them!
· PRAY! Prayer is vital
to any successful youth ministry program.
Pray every day for your program and get others to pray for you too. Students, parents, catechists, etc. A lady at our church…that is her ministry, to
pray for our program. We call her our “prayer warrior.”
Hope this helps! Sorry, I haven’t updated my blog in a
while. I’ve been really busy! I should take my own advice and do more of
these things! I'm happy, I pray you're happy too! God Bless!
