5 Tips To Prevent Burning Out

Well, we knocked out what seems like the longest month ever. How did everyone fare? It seems like everyone had explosive starts coming out the gate then towards the end things got a little shaky. It could have been due to missed deadlines, procrastination or anything else you can think of. Today I want to give you 5 tips on how to prevent burning out. Let’s dive in!

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1. Know your limit

   It is so easy to get bogged down with things like taking on projects from multiple clients, day to day life, if you're working full-time in addition to running a business and the list goes on honestly. Or should I say that it can go on? Sometimes you don't know how much you've taken on until it's too late. I'm speaking from experience my friends. My solution is knowing when to say no. I've taken projects on in the past that I wished I could have said no to. I misjudged thinking that I could take on a hefty job during peak season and got a spike in business then it turned into me putting in crazy hours to complete the bigger job in addition to the others. I didn't have a staff, what was I thinking?! Ultimately the clients were happy, but at the cost of sleep, time and sanity. Don't be afraid to say no or to ask for help even. I'll touch more on this in another point.

2. Time management

   This is hard sometimes, but it can be done. I think working in time blocks is effective. Scheduling 1-2 hours to work on a single task vs multitasking is better in my opinion. Your attention isn't split, and you're solely focused on the task at hand. If you're not able to get things finished you can move to the next item on your list and get it knocked out before returning to the initial project with fresh eyes. There are going to be things that we can't get wrapped up in one touch unfortunately, but the quick hits won't eat away at a lot of your time. Prioritize the most important things that need to be completed. Creating deadlines for yourself leaves little room for procrastinating also.

3. Unplug

   It's crazy how much information that we take in on a daily basis. Numerous social media outlets, television, streaming services etc. Sometimes you have to just take a step back from the world to recalibrate. Technology is great, but it is also addictive. Choose a time each day that you can shut the power down, disconnect and just chill.

4. Outsourcing

   This calls back to my first and second points. Sometimes you reach your limit and you don't have enough time to tackle the smaller tasks. Consider outsourcing services, it'll keep you from pulling away from more important issues, free up precious time and allow you to complete more tasks in a shorter period of time. This is a tip I haven't been able to put into action yet, but I have offered video editing services to a fellow photographer in the past. He was able to save time because he didn't have to learn a new skill and he was able to work on his next project.

5. Rest

   This is self explanatory, but not always easy. A full nights rest really goes a long way. Sure burning the midnight oil is ok sometimes, but if this is a frequent habit it won't benefit you or your client, employer etc. When I'm tired I can't focus on whatever is going on. I want to crawl back in bed, pull the sheets over my head and get a few more hours. My mind is everywhere else except what I need to be doing. Recharge your battery and get the proper amount of rest folks.  Physically and mentally you'll be able to perform better. Did you know that people who have insufficient amounts of sleep have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke? Take care of yourself so you can take care of your customers.

There’s only one you, so take the necessary steps to ensure that you’re able to stick around for a bit. Thank you for reading and I hope you can take away from some of these tips I shared with you today.

GXA Ribbon Cutting

I always get excited when I get a call or text from my long time client Alicia Makaye for portraits or event coverage. Alicia is the Vice President of GXA IT Solutions alongside her husband George Makaye and they are one of the most generous, dedicated and genuine couples that I have met. Over the years I have watched them grow and it has been amazing to see and hear how far they have come with their IT company. They do so much out in the community, but this time the community came out to them.

Alicia conversing with a visitor about the newly acquired building.

Networking & Tour

Patrons came from all over to view this lovely space and there was a variety of sponsors in attendance as well. Bites were provided by SoulGood, a photo booth was set up by Photosbypjp, sweet treats were provided by BBVA and real estate professionals Alt+Co were in attendance to show support. This headquarters had so many wonderful amenities. A fully stocked break-room, a makeup room just in case someone needs to get photoshoot ready, lol! A nap room guys…Need I say more? When I found out about that I considered putting in a good ol’ application myself! In the middle of the space is a prayer room where you can go to be at peace, meditate, and just focus. The dynamic duo really put some thought into this space. It really is a sight to see and it is definitely a privilege to work there.

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Snip, Snip…

The event had such a great turnout. There were visitors that came from all around the community from church members, employees and even people who just so happened to be passing by. I have been to ribbon cutting events in the past, but this is the first time that I attended one where there were two cutting ceremonies. The Richardson Chamber of Commerce as well as the Plano Chamber both visited and spoke to George and Alicia before the ribbon cuttings. They were more than excited to welcome the couple and congratulate them on their new space which happens to be prime real estate in the middle of an area that continues to grow. GXA are now neighbors to Texas Instruments, United Health Care, State Farm over in Cityline, UT Dallas and various other businesses. Plano Chamber of Commerce member Ron Schoof was very welcoming during his speech to the new members. One of the things that came up the most throughout the day was how much that George and Alicia enjoy to give. They have such big hearts and their love for philanthropy has always been a topic that they hold dear. I remember a few years back I was shooting an office party for GXA and Alicia told this story of how she was volunteering at Minnie’s Food Pantry earlier that day. She was so moved by a lady that she had encountered who had a young child and they had no place to stay nor food. She went on to tell the crowd how she and the founder of Minnie’s Food Pantry took the lady to the store and got food, toiletries as well as getting them set up in a hotel. I say this because one of the things Alicia said when she was addressing everyone at the ribbon cutting was, “Before anything else, we are givers.” I think everyone in attendance had known that prior to coming out.

“Before anything else, we are givers…”

This was a great event for an outstanding team. I am beyond happy for George and Alicia on their new adventure as a couple and as professionals. Every time I encounter them I am hearing a story of personal growth not only about them, but the people around them as well. I absolutely cannot wait until we connect again to talk about what they are up to next.