Maximum Efficiency vs. Burn-out - Part 3

Parts 1 and 2 of this article (go to the Building Blocks Page to read these past eZine issues) focused on finding where your point of balance lies among maximum productivity, burn-out and coasting.

When you’re in balance, that translates into maximum productivity. But if you’re burnt out or coasting, how do you turn that around? There are some similarities in how to approach solving either issue.

Leonardo DaVinci lived from 1452-1519. Not only was he a fabulous painter, but DaVinci was also a sculptor, architect, musician, engineer, mathematician and scientist. He was an incredible intellect, and obviously had a lot on his plate. But his words still ring true over 500 years later:

“Every now and then go away,
have a little relaxation,
for when you come back to your work
your judgment will be surer;
since to remain constantly at work
will cause you to lose power of judgment….

Go some distance away
Because the work appears smaller
And more of it can be taken in at a glance,
And a lack of harmony or proportion
Is more readily seen.”

The paradox of which DaVinci speaks is that a healthy way to be more effective in one’s endeavors is sometimes to GO AWAY from them.

Retreat.

In my experience, going away should mean changing your physical environment, not just trying to change your state of mind. Even if it’s just for a day and within an hour of your home, there is something catalytic about being in a different physical environs that more speedily generates new perspective on one’s current issues. This is a worthwhile endeavor for turning around coasting or burn-out.

The following suggests some questions to ponder and do some writing about when you do go away.

Burn-out –

What might re-kindle your passion? How’d you get that passion in the first place? What are you willing to let go of? Who can help? What would it cost? What will it cost if you keep on the same path? What’s the payoff you get for being burnt out (financial rewards, avoiding something else, feeling like Superman, etc.)?

Coasting –

Think of a time when you felt most alive. Chances are it was when you were out on your “edge.” Stretching further than you thought possible, learning new things, taking some risk. If you’re coasting, what’s caused that? Has your learning curve flattened at work? Are you taking your relationships (or your job) for granted? Did you just need “a break” that has somehow turned into your everyday life? Are you proud of what you’re accomplishing with your life today?

The following questions apply to either situation:

1. Check in w/your values and needs (work with a coach if you want some help on that). How does your current life stack up with that picture?
2. What are 3 changes you could make to get you back toward the ideal picture?
3. What could you do TODAY to start making those changes happen?
4. What safeguards/checks can you put in place for yourself to measure your progress and ensure that you don’t either:
   1. end up back in the same place
   2. swing too far the other way

   Share your commitments with someone – your coach, your partner, your boss, or your best friend. Ask them to support you in your new choices, and to “call you” on behavior that’s out of integrity with those choices. Set some calendar milestones for progress. Have faith that where you are today is not where you have to be this time next year, if you’re willing to make it different.

   ---

   © Copyright Magellan Enterprises, all rights reserved
   
   Reach Me: Telephone: (970) 259-4847; Fax: (970) 259-4874
   E-mail: ginger@magellangj.com
   Web: www.magellangj.com

   Please recommend this E-Zine to anyone you know that is interested in getting more out of their career or their life (It's a good way to stay in touch with clients, too.)

   If you are receiving this issue as a forward, and would like to get your own free subscription, visit The Magellan Building Blocks Page.

   PRIVACY STATEMENT: We will not distribute your address to anyone. Period.