Published on 12:00 AM, September 10, 2011

Lifestyle

Help prevent burnout


Managing all of your responsibilities at home and work can make it difficult to find some personal time. The American Academy of Paediatrics suggests how busy parents can help prevent burnout:
* Sneak in a few minutes of quiet relaxation at work, even if it is just by closing the door and breathing deeply, or by going for a quick walk.
* Try to arrive home happy, energetic and feeling refreshed.
* Find ways to reduce your load, such as by getting a healthy takeout dinner a few nights a week, or by hiring someone to help you with household chores.
* Share some responsibilities among all family members, such as by having everyone pitch in to clean up the house.
* Accept that you cannot always accomplish everything at once. Set priorities for what's most important.
* Treat yourself to some relaxation time during the weekend, whether it is by reading a book in a quiet room or by going to the gym alone.