Civic-Activist ``Burnout'': Treating the Symptoms If you're actively involved in community issues, you've probably experienced these feelings: You're suddenly sure that, despite all of your hard work and best efforts, nothing will ever improve. Or, you look back over an election and know, without question, that no candidate you work for will ever be elected; in fact, no good candidate will ever be elected again! Perhaps you worry that, in the interest of your civic involvements, you are neglecting your family and friends. Or, maybe you feel like each day is over in a flash, with not a moment in it is set aside for your personal needs. The diagnosis: A likely case of ``Burnout.'' Most who've been civically involved have run into burnout at one time or other. Some of us call it quits for good and leave the work to others to follow in our footsteps. Some of us have learned tactics that help us cope with burnout stretches when they occur and then just keep on going. ``Common Sense'' asked for reactions to the question ``What do you do to avoid burnout? And if it occurs, what remedies do you try?'' Here are some of the answers we received from a number of active people in the community. For each of the respondents, only one or two of their many civic involvements is noted -- there wouldn't be space to list them all! Debbie Dunbar Ortman Two-term Hermantown City Councilor, founding member of a number of local environmental and political groups. ``The key to avoiding burnout is to learn how to say `no' and not over-commit oneself. To deal with burnout and stress, I schedule regular massage appointments, watch too many comedy/romance movies on the weekends and, yes, sometimes overeat. I also talk about issues, feelings, and thoughts with friends. I plan walking dates with friends and give and get lots of hugs. I also attend gatherings where I can connect with activists and progressives, which can often be very therapeutic.'' Marsh Stenersen Board of Directors, Lake Superior Area Labor Management Association and delegate, Duluth Central Labor Body. ``Talking with others of generally like minds, bouncing ideas off of others, and taking some time to think conceptually instead of focusing on the instant political disappointment or frustration generally recharges my batteries. I continue as well to be inspired by Paul Wellstone, who would not allow himself to be paralyzed by disappointment, frustration, or even his own personal health problems. He always picked himself up and urged us, his supporters, to fight even harder for what we believe in.'' Greg Gilbert Duluth City Councilor ''It often seems that just when I get that occasional `burned-out' feeling, I get a letter, email, or phone call from someone simply thanking me for the work I do. This makes the effort all worthwhile and leaves me reenergized.'' Louise Curnow Co-Owner, Green Mercantile ``Healthy Products'' store and co-organizer of current ``Progressive Series'' discussions. ``I always find it enjoyable to get together with members of the progressive community. I think if it were not for these gatherings -- where we can regain spirit, enthusiasm, and hope -- I may have given up the activist role some time ago. I think it is also incredibly important to maintain a sense of humor. We are, after all, such a tiny little speck in this great, vast universe. We can't take ourselves too seriously!'' Jamie Harvie Member of Duluth's Environmental Advisory Committee. ``After particularly hectic times, I find that a key is to trust and have faith that others have the skills and vision to keep the dream alive. I withdraw to a less visible place. I also find I am at my best when I bike to work. Not only is the health component of the commute important but also the spiritually, as I reconnect to the daily passage of life, the sun coming up, the bite (or warmth) of the sun, or the hello to walkers and others along the way. It is a good grounding.'' These articles are retained on the web for historical interest and do not necessarily reflect the views or goals of DPPA today.

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